Why does it take so long to a certificate of vision to be issued, I am supposed to reg. as partially sighted,?

Question

Left Kings eye department on Aug 8th having been told that the consultat was going to register me as partally sighted. It gets quite dangerous sometimes when I am out as I dont always see things easily if the light is wrong. I am told that the Governmeent is involved.

Answer 1

From personal experance, you have to be on these people's tails to get things done. I would ring them and do it every week until its done. I know its a pain on your front but it will get things moving hopefully.

Answer 2

I have been registered partially sighted form birth, so unfortunately I am unable to help you with your main query , but I may be able to offer you some advise on some of your other concerns.

Do you have problems with Bright sunlight? You can now get anti glare glasses which might help. They should be provided by the hospital or by the local council or support groups in your area.

Do you use a cane? This can often help when getting around. There are various types including the long cane, often used by people who are severely sight impaired (the new term for 'blind') . This cane takes quite a while to get used to and should only be used after some training.

The other type of cane is the symbol cane which I use. This can be used wither by holding the cane across your body or in front of you, depending on which one you get. This allows sighted people to know that you have a sight impalement and hopefully they will not bump into you , although I have found that women pushing prams seem to bump into me more when I use it.

Are you aware that some pedestrian crossings now have a know underneath the box with the button on that if you hold it allows you to know when it is safe to cross the road by turning when the lights change.

I hope this proves useful. If there is anything else I can help you with then you can contact me by using the email link on my profile page.

I guess you are aware that there are support groups out there. You may find it useful to contact some of these groups to find out what other support is offered in your area. I particularly find the talking books service offered by the RNIB very useful. I have included their link at the end of this reply.