Children and young people stories

Ruby loves getting messy at My Time to Play sessions organised by Guide Dogs. Her mum explains how Ruby’s confidence has improved since attending the sessions.

When Eliza was just nine-months-old she was registered blind. Eliza’s parents came away feeling so overwhelmed and didn’t know what to do next, where to go or who to speak to.

Isaac was born with a birthmark over his eye, which affects his sight. Since buddy dog Riley moved into their home, mum Louise says the whole family hasn’t stopped smiling.

Like many ten-year-olds, Ralph is at an age where he wants to start doing more for himself. Find out how we supported him at school and at home.

Will received an iPad from Guide Dogs to help with independence and homework since transitioning to senior school. His mum explains the difference it's made.

Within 24 hours of birth, Josie suffered a stroke causing her to have issues with her vision. After serval difficult years with no support, Josie's parents got the idea to call Guide Dogs and haven't looked back since.

Growing up had many challenges for Grace and her family but they overcame them together. And now, having been matched with a buddy dog, a whole new world has been opened up for six-year-old Grace.

Namit enjoyed his primary education within a mainstream school. So when it was time for him to go on to secondary school, we worked with Namit's family to make sure he continued to thrive at the right school for him. 

As a university student with a vision impairment, Suhaylah had to show university staff that it wasn't going to stop her achieving her dream of working with children. 

On days when it's too bright for Ellis' eyes, he misses out on playing with his friends. Buddy dog, Ralph, has helped Ellis feel a lot better and gave him someone very special to talk to.

When buddy dog Sam joined Jago's family in June, he instantly became Jago's best friend, giving security and companionship that has completely transformed their lives.

Like any other teenager, Mia just wanted to be independent and go out with her friends. With help from her Guide Dogs habilitation specialist, she gained the confidence and skills to do just that.

Although Oashia has no sight at all, her Guide Dogs habilitation coach, Helen, is helping her get the most out of life - including doing gymnastics and horse riding!

Alma has nystagmus and Leber congenital amaurosis; her younger sister Suzie has the same condition. So Mum, Sophie, found attending a family weekend invaluable.

Caitlin was born with congenital glaucoma but that hasn't stopped her performing her songs for hundreds of people and training with the British judo VI team.

Fin just wanted to be the same as all the other children in his class and who knew that that would lead to a love of reading, the theatre and playing the piano!

The eye condition hypothalamic astrocytoma has not stopped Rebecca from applying to do a professional cookery course at college later this year.