Other Guide Dogs services
At Guide Dogs, we’re here to support you every step of the way. While you’re waiting to be matched with your guide dog, our experts are on hand to help you live the life you choose. Enquire today and our experts will listen to your needs to help you get the best service and support for you.
Developing or improving existing cane skills
A cane can be a great tool to help you get out and about. Once you’ve begun your journey with Guide Dogs, one of our Vision Rehabilitation Specialists will be able to offer additional support to improve your cane skills so you can get out and about confidently while you are waiting to be matched with your guide dog.
It’s also important to remember that even once you’ve been matched, there may be occasions where it may not be appropriate to bring your guide dog - if you enjoy going to noisy concerts for example. Keeping on top of your cane skills could give you even more opportunities to do the things you want to do and keep active.
If you would prefer to watch the video without an audio description, there is a non-described version here rather than the accessible one above.
Technology skills
Whether you love technology and have all the latest gadgets, or sometimes find it all a little intimidating, there may be some surprising ways you can use it to your advantage.
The right technology could open doors to new experiences, from screen readers to smart speakers, navigation apps to doorbell cameras, there is something for everyone.
If technology feels like a whole new world to you, speak to your Vision Rehabilitation Specialist or contact Guide Line. They may be able to show you some amazing technology skills to help you manage everyday tasks.
Sighted guiding
If you still feel like you need support getting out and about and prefer to be out with a companion, perhaps a sighted guide could be right for you. Your friends and family can take our helpful training to learn how best to support you.
Supporting people on the Ready to Train programme is really important. My support is unique to each person, some people I work with could need help with technology or a referral to another organisation. We're always just a phone call away.
Life skills
It’s not just tech and cane skills your Vision Rehabilitation Specialist can support you with. By helping you with new methods and techniques to handle everyday tasks, you’ll stay on top of your independent living skills. This includes everything from preparing meals safely to managing and organising your home so that it works for you.