Research has revealed that people living with sight loss in Northern Ireland continue to face barriers in every day life.
RNIB NI found that the key areas which cause difficulties for those living with sight loss are transport, accessible health information, receiving timely healthcare, access to employment, and general equality of access to services.
Speaking at the launch of their Northern Ireland Engagement Report at Parliament Buildings, Belfast, RNIB’s Northern Ireland Chairperson, Andrea Begley said: “This event has the potential to kick-start a better era for blind and partially sighted people here where our voices are heard and concerns addressed.
"The report shows that there are still many barriers faced by the community from accessing transport, to employment, to living independently but that the solutions to many of these issues exist.
“I know that blind and partially sighted people are passionate about breaking down the barriers that exist for us but I also know that we cannot do it alone.
"RNIB working with the community, government and other partners will now forge ahead to create the real change we all want to see.”
Long-time campaigner for people living with sight loss, David Mann, was one of those who provided personal experience and insight to the RNIB research.
He said: “Independence and dignity go hand in hand. Independence doesn’t necessarily mean doing everything without help. It means being in control of when you get help or support and what form that help and support takes.
"For this to be a reality, you need confidence and skills and you also need a society geared up to offering the right support.”
RNIB Northern Ireland now plans to take their priorities for change out to a series of regional meetings, bringing together blind and partially sighted people, partners and key decision makers to examine how we can collectively create a society where there are no barriers to people with sight loss.
For more information visit the RNIB website .
Video by Belfast Live videographer Harry Bateman.
