We are required to keep a register of people with a visual impairment, however, registration is entirely voluntary. Only a Consultant ophthalmologist can certify that someone is eligible to be registered. If the eye condition you have affects both eyes and is not correctable by spectacles, contact lenses or treatment, then you may be certified as eligible for blind or partially sighted registration. If you agree to registration your consultant will complete Certificate of Visual impairment (CVI). This form will then be forwarded to the sensory support team.
There are two categories of registration:

• severely sight impaired/blind
• sight impaired/partially sighted.

Significant numbers of people also live with more serious sight loss. The leading causes are age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. If the eye condition you have affects both eyes and is not correctable by spectacles, contact lenses or treatment, then you may be certified as eligible for blind or partially sighted registration.

Local service (Easington, Teesdale, Wear Valley, Chester-le-Street, Derwentside, Sedgefield).

Please contact Social Care Direct if you would like to find out more:
Social Care Direct
email: scd@durham.gov.uk
Tel: 0845 850 5010
Fax: 0191 383 5752
Minicom: 0142 988 4124

After we receive the form from your eye specialist, you will receive a visit from the rehabilitation officer for people with sight loss, who will advise you on the services and benefits available.

Financial advice (benefits), Information / Signposting / Gateway service, Health & wellbeing services

08/02/2012