What help is available for me as the family/carer of a child or young person with vision impairment?

Parents at the point of diagnosis can be directed to RNIB's Diagnosis and Emotional Wellbeing webpages: Diagnosis and Emotional Wellbeing | RNIB | RNIB 

If a child meets the criteria for certification, they should be referred to a  Vision Impairment Teaching Service, (sometimes called Sensory Support/Specialist Teaching Service) by their eye clinic.  This referral can be made even without a diagnosis if a suspected vision impairment that meets the criteria is confirmed. A Qualified Teacher of children and young people with Vision Impairment(QTVI) will support at home for children aged 0-5 and within the education setting for children in nursery, school or other forms of education. A Habilitation Specialist (RQHS) from the VI team can support and advise on mobility and daily living skills such as feeding and eating, orientation and cooking. The Vision Impairment Teaching Service supports a child from nursery to school to college as they move through their education. 

Parents in England can find contact details for their local VI team on RNIB's Local Offer database: 

• Local offer webpages for England (Excel) 

Our ‘Information for Parents’ Guide is a comprehensive manual about caring for and living with a child with a vision impairment. It contains information on: 

• eye health to help with understanding a child's diagnosis 

• the professionals who can supportfamilies 

• home life in the early years 

• toys, play and development  

• securing the right support in nursery and school 

• considering social and leisure opportunities.  

Contact your Local Sight Loss Organisation to check if they offer any services specific to children and families.  

RNIB Specialist Advice Service Advisors can give further information on this topic