Charity calls for greater awareness of blindness in the North West

A survey of people across the North West has revealed a widespread lack of awareness and understanding of sight loss.

The poll, conducted by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), found that 40 per cent of people in the area believe that blind and partially sighted people would struggle to find and hold down a job.

More than a third (34 per cent) said blind and partially sighted people cannot enjoy TV and film, and more than a quarter (27 per cent) did not think that blind and partially sighted people can read books.

The survey also suggested that people in the North West lack confidence when it comes to providing assistance.

Nearly half (46 per cent) of people surveyed admitted that they would not always help a blind or partially sighted person, with 10 per cent saying that they would find the situation awkward and a further 8 per cent saying they would be afraid of causing offence. 

The findings back up research carried out by the charity amongst the blind and partially sighted community, which revealed that the biggest barrier they face is other people’s limited knowledge and understanding of sight loss. 

Poor societal attitudes and lack of awareness were judged to be a bigger barrier to inclusion than practical challenges including finding and keeping a job, navigating streets and using public transport. 

The findings have been released by RNIB to mark its 150th anniversary and launch of the charity’s new vision: a world without barriers for blind and partially sighted people.

Terri Balon, RNIB Regional Campaigns Officer for the North West, said: “We’ve come a long way since RNIB was formed in 1868, but as our research shows, there’s still work to be done, particularly around improving society’s understanding of the experience and spectrum of sight loss.

“One example is around offering assistance – something which people in the North West are reluctant to do for fear of causing offence, being unsure of how to help or finding the situation awkward.

“Our message is simple – just ask. Like anyone, blind and partially sighted people appreciate an offer of help. It’s just about working out the best way to do it.

“Looking to the future, our vision is a world free of barriers for people with sight loss, where we can live the lives we want to lead and are valued for who we are, not defined by the disabilities we have.

“It’s an ambitious vision but one I’m confident we can achieve by working with our partners as we move into an exciting new chapter of our story.”   

The charity recently unveiled a new brand supported by a series of adverts and short films which use everyday scenarios and humour to urge people to see the person, not the sight loss.