Family support
Family support
Our Family Support team offers practical and emotional support, advice and information to the families of children with a visual impairment, as well as working with other professionals and organisations.
We know that the consistent and informed support for the whole family, including grandparents, brothers and sisters, is invaluable for parents of a child with sight loss – which is why we are here to listen, care and advise.
We can do that by explaining complex terms, giving independent advice on claiming benefits or contacting agencies and organisations on your family’s behalf.
In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, we work closely with local charities to provide family support services.
When to get in touch
If you feel you are in one of these situations:
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Your child has been diagnosed with a vision impairment within the last 12 months
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Your child has yet to receive a diagnosis for a vision impairment
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Your child’s vision has recently changed
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You attend frequent hospital visits/eye tests
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You have recently moved to a new area
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Your child does not receive, or you are looking to apply for, benefits and grants
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You are looking for activities and early development advice for your child
Then please do get in touch with our Family Support service to find out how we can help.
Additionally, for information on living with sight loss and eye health, visit the Sight Advice FAQ website.Helpful downloads and resources
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Guide for parents – myths about vision impairment, children and young people
This resource provides useful information to dispel myths you may hear about vision impairment in children. We hope this document will put your mind at ease.
Vision impairment - a guide for parents - terminology key (pdf 101.48kb) -
Who is who – professionals supporting your family
The world of vision impairment can be daunting, especially when hearing about and coming into contact with different people in the field of health, social care and education. This information sheet provides information about those professionals, with a brief explanation of their role.
Who is who - professionals supporting your family (pdf 171.74kb)
Do you need help?
Please get in touch if you'd like some advice, or to chat about how we can help you.