Be Helpful guide launched by RNIB

A campaign launched by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) encouraged sighted people to offer people with sight loss a hand rather than waiting to be asked.

RNIB research revealed that nine in 10 blind or partially sighted people may need help when making an unfamiliar journey, but 60% of sighted people feel awkward about offering assistance.

Almost half (43%) said they would appreciate assistance at train stations, 39% at bus stops and 30% said help would be welcome on pavements with obstacles, such as bins, parked cars and scooters.

To encourage sighted people to help, the charity created a Be Helpful guide and produced a short film featuring actors with sight loss in everyday relatable scenarios to highlight the challenges.