Benefits short change visually impaired

State benefits do not cover the cost of being visually impaired, a new report by the Thomas Pocklington Trust has found.

The research showed people with sight problems who were living at or below the minimum income standard or receiving benefits will prioritise basic needs over their eye care costs.

Visually impaired people receiving Personal Independence Payments (PIP) have previously had their income be topped up by other employment and support allowances. However, disability-related premiums are to be discontinued under Universal Credit, leaving many visually impaired people unable to pay for what they need.