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More than 30,000 children and young people up to the age of 18 in the UK are severely sight impaired. When 80% of what children learn is gained through vision, it's vital to provide them and their families with as much support as possible, to assist the child's early development.
Bringing together all our existing children and young people services at our new centres will enable us to provide a holistic and bespoke support programme for the whole family. Not only that, but we'll also be able to develop and expand new services, such as our 'My Time to Play' programme and Buddy Dogs service - where we match one of our amazing dogs to a child to provide companionship, build confidence and increase well-being.
The centres will serve the local and regional communities and often, the team can support families within their own homes when required.
Of the 30,000 children and young people with sight loss in the UK, approximately 4,000 of those are pre-school age, from nought-to-four years.
If babies with a visual impairment are not identified early, the development of the child's early social, independence and movement skills in the first two years of life, can be seriously impeded as a result of a lack of intensive habilitation, health and educational support.
We aim to deliver what is currently a pilot programme for children of nought-to-four years, which empowers parents with the knowledge, skills, strategies and environment to help them provide the critical support for their child's development, so they can reach their full potential.
The new centres will provide us with specialised facilities such as sensory rooms and dedicated space to operate the 'My Time to Play' programme. Although the aim of this new approach is to also be available in the home and at other suitable venues as required. It aims to incorporate group sessions tailored to increase children's early development, encourage family bonds, reduce isolation and help children reach their potential.
Every child and young person with sight loss has individual challenges and needs.
Our experts provide tailored support plans - from educational support, building practical life skills, learning to navigate the world around them, using assistive technology, through to Custom Eyes reading books and making new friends through family events. And, not forgetting our guide dogs, who provide young people with sight loss the confidence to get out and about safely.
The new centres will also enable us to expand our buddy dog service. Buddy dogs bring a canine friend into the lives of children with sight loss. They help the children build confidence and trust. They provide companionship, fun and children learn about the responsibility of caring for a dog.
These services have a huge impact on children and young people, giving them the confidence to continue and progress through education and pursue their ambitions.
80% of what children learn is gained through vision. Our new centres are vital in helping children and their families as soon as possible to maximise their development potential.
Nine-year-old Oashia may have no sight at all, but that isn't stopping her from leading a full and active life, including taking part in both horse-riding and gymnastics. When she's at home, she likes nothing better than playing and cuddling with buddy dog Garston.
Oashia is the only child at home and, despite making friends easily, she can sometimes feel isolated at school. Therefore, the family applied to Guide Dogs for a buddy dog for Oashia. Garston settled into the family well providing Oashia with someone to play with. Penny, Oashia's guardian says, "He's been a lifesaver for Oashia and for me too." Oashia describes him as her "best friend" and says, "I like to play with him and cuddle him." She's also learning to take responsibility for him, for example, by giving him his food.