Blind Children UK is the leading charity for children and young people with sight loss. They help children and their families tackle the challenges of young sight loss so that they can enjoy their childhood and realise their potential as adults.
They believe that no child should feel isolated and afraid or be deprived of a full life just because they can't see. They help children and young adults with sight loss to be all they can be, and to live as independently as possible.
The services they deliver support children - and their families too - right from birth through to young adulthood. Their aim is to enable the whole family live life to the full, so they also give parents tools they can use to help their children reach educational and recreational goals.
Services available -
Movement Matters - provides training to help blind children and young people get around safely and independently. Movement Matters also teaches important life skills such as handling money and preparing food.
These vital services are delivered by qualified Habilitation Specialists, who work shoulder-to-shoulder with other organisations, including local authorities.
Family Support - The Family Support Team gives the families of children with visual impairment emotional and practical support, advice and information. They also advise and work with other professionals and organisations.
Education Support - The Education Support Team is on hand to help children and young people with sight loss to get the best from their education. The support they offer is particularly valuable to help children move smoothly and confidently from one stage of education to another.
They can assist with identifying a suitable nursery, school or college, and provide confidential advice around a child's statutory rights. They explain complex terms and help with processes and forms. They are also experiences at liaising with professionals on families' behalf and acting as expert witnesses.
Technology - The Access Technology Team gives advice on choosing the most appropriate technology and sensory equipment to help children with a vision impairment study and play. They also offer a grants programme that allows families to apply for recommended items they otherwise wouldn't be able to access.
CustomEyes® Books - Blind Children UK's CustomEyes® service produces large print books for children with vision impairment. These are tailor-made for each child or young person, but we only charge the recommended retail price.