Information on the Guide Dogs services

If you have a serious visual impairment, a guide dog can help you become more independent and mobile. Highly trained to support you in navigating any mobility challenges you may face, guide dogs are a great way to get you out and about with confidence.

Frequently asked questions

The gateway to all our services begins with two conversations over the phone. This helps us to get to know more about you, explore what’s important to you and identify the goals you want to achieve.

We will discuss with you the range of services that we offer. If our services appear appropriate for your needs we will then carry out an assessment to fully understand the best ways that we may be able to support you to improve your independence and wellbeing.
To apply for a guide dog you’ll need to meet the following criteria:

Personal details

Provide evidence that you have been a UK resident for a continuous basis of at least 12 months and will remain in the UK for at least 12 months from commencement of your guide dog training

Have an interpreter available, if relevant

Not have any safeguarding issues that would put our staff, dogs or other clients at risk

Be available to start training (children and young people can train during school holidays)

Abilities and aspirations

Can independently give direction to and be an active partner with a guide dog

Be able to walk for around 40 minutes (or one mile) every day

Care for a young, intelligent and active dog

To work the dog a minimum of five days a week

Eye condition

Your sight impairment significantly impacts your ability to travel around safely, efficiently and confidently

Guide dog welfare

You and all members of your household are not, and have not been, subject to any type of animal ban

Demonstrate that the guide dog will have a good quality of life, providing:

Good nutrition

A safe and secure environment

Regular checks with a vet

Exercise, space and stimulation

Companionship and appropriate toys

When Steve met May

“The first decisions I made to make my life better was to get independent again. That was the biggest thing for me. 'Cause I wanted to be able to get up in the morning, put my shoes on and just go out.”

The effect on Steve’s life was pretty much instant. With May by his side, he felt freer than he had for years.

Lucy and Olivia

17-year-old Lucy had to put a hold on her plans to study medicine at university when she lost her sight four years ago – but now, guide dog Olivia is helping Lucy maintain her independence.