My Guide - a new service being piloted
What is the status of the My Guide programme?
My Guide is a programme which piloted with the first 5 services set up in 2011. The project moves on a phase in 2012 to expanding and developing schemes across the UK with external partners. In 2012 My Guide will also pilot direct delivery of the service through Guide Dog Mobility Teams. If successful and sustainable, Guide Dogs will continue to coordinate the My Guide service alongside its permanent activities including the core guide dog service and our children and young people service.
How is My Guide different to other forms of sighted guiding?
- My Guide is the first UK service formed out of using sighted guiding techniques.
- My Guide sets up a community sighted guide collaboration, involving the public, commercial enterprises, statutory services, friends and volunteers.
- My Guide is a time-limited intervention centred on building confidence and community participation.
- My Guide provides a personalised activity plan that sets goals to increase mobility through sighted guiding.
- My Guide encourages independence and less reliance on lifelong assistance to get out of the home, either through family or local blind society transport services.
