New research reveals isolation and exclusion

New research reveals isolation and exclusion

One-in-five blind and partially sighted people in the UK don’t go out on their own, because they haven’t received appropriate training and support from social services. This is one of the findings in an interim report produced by Guide Dogs, assessing the needs and functionality of visually impaired people. (published at the end of November).

Earlier this year, Guide Dogs conducted a survey of blind and partially-sighted people about their experiences and how they function in their daily lives.  Using a unique approach – focussing on the ability of individuals to carry out day to day activities rather than assessing their disability – the charity explored what restricted independence and mobility. 

A needs assessment carried out by a qualified rehabilitation worker is vital for the provision of appropriate services to blind and partially sighted people, however, Guide Dogs’ research showed that across the UK:

• about one-in-five (19%) reported never having been visited by a social or rehabilitation worker to have their needs assessed;
• 18% of those who received an assessment visit felt it did not highlight all their needs; and
• 40% who had their needs assessed were not offered services based on that assessment.

Rehabilitation training is designed to help people develop the everyday skills that they need to maintain a vital level of independence, however:

• 63% of visually impaired people surveyed did not receive mobility training;
• 83% did not receive any independent living skills training;
• and 29% were not provided with low vision aids via a low vision clinic and of those who were given these aids, 60% received no training in using them.

Blind and partially sighted people also reported a number of barriers to everyday living:

• 18% reported that they were never able to go out by themselves. Those who found it difficult or impossible to go out alone cited fear, lack of confidence and unexpected obstacles, such as advertising A-boards and overhanging hedges, as the main factors.  Concerns were also expressed about public transport such as too many steps at railway stations and identifying the correct bus and where/when to get off.

Following this interim report, Guide Dogs will complete the analysis of the survey results to determine the full extent of the barriers facing blind and partially sighted people. The final report is scheduled to be published in Spring 2007.

Tom Pey, Guide Dogs’ Director of Public Policy and Development, said:  “It is unacceptable that in the 21st century the needs of vulnerable people in our communities continue to be neglected. We intend to use the results of our research to highlight these issues to government, social services and public transport operators.  Guide Dogs wants to work constructively with them to ensure provisions are put in place to enhance independence and mobility for people with sight loss.”

The results of the research are already being used to direct the work of the Rehabilitation Project Group. Set up by Guide Dogs with representation from across the voluntary, social care and education sectors, the Project Group is looking at ways to improve the lives of blind and partially sighted people through the redevelopment of rehabilitation services.

A copy of the interim report is available on the Guide Dogs’ website in the rehabilitation project area.