Nearly half of people with sight loss in England are not being assessed for vision rehabilitation support by their local authorities, according to latest findings.
The RNIB’s new report See, Plan and Provide, based on a survey of local authorities in England, found that 66 per cent of local authorities do not offer an initial specialist assessment to people with sight loss.
Under the Care Act 2015 local authorities have a duty to meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people, a statement added.
Fazilet Hadi, director of engagement at RNIB, said: ‘Our research has found shockingly inadequate vision rehabilitation assessments for thousands of blind and partially sighted people. While some local authorities are doing good work, it’s completely unacceptable that many others are failing people who are losing their sight or living with sight loss.
‘We urge all local authorities to provide quality vision rehabilitation services, so people with sight loss receive the support they need to become or stay independent. Local Authorities should see, plan and provide – undertake a face-to-face specialist assessment, agree a personal plan, and deliver necessary support.’