Accessing information and communication for people with sight loss

This factsheet gives advice on the ways in which people with sight loss can best receive and give information.

Print

• Use large printed words, rather than joined up writing.
• Print should not be all capitalised as this makes distinguishing between different letters/words difficult.
• Using a felt tip or marker pen produces a vivid dark image which is easier to read.
• You can magnify print using a low vision aid such as ‘monoculars’ or you can enlarge text on a photocopier.
• When reading, it may help to use a ruler or piece of card to mark the line and reduce glare coming from the page.
• It may help to move the text/page instead of moving your eyes,

Information Technology (IT)

IT includes computers, electronic magnifiers, scanners and software that may enable the person to read or write.  Information can be produced in large print, speech or a combination of both.

Recording on cassette or pocket memo

An alternative to writing is to make a recording on to a cassette or pocket memo or a digital voice recorder.

Braille

Braille is a tactile language, read/felt through the fingertips. Richmond Adult Community College runs courses for people with sight loss to learn Braille.

Telephone

• It may be helpful to have a large printed list of telephonenumbers.
• Record and use memory numbers to dial from your telephone, especially for essential contacts and services.
• Sensory Services can advise on telephones that have big buttons and amplification.

Resources and training

• Equipment which includes reading lights, writing frames and signature guides can be provided following assessment. Call Sensory Services on 020 8487 1760 for more details.
• Large print books, talking books on cassette and CD are available from your local library. Local libraries also have free internet access with large image software and a home visiting scheme.
• Calibre audio library operates a free cassette library of talking books and is currently developing a CD library. Call 01296 432 339
• RNIB Talking Books have a library of talking books on CD. There is a subscription cost to this service. Call 0845 762 6843
• Richmond Talking Newspaper is a locally produced cassette of news, distributed weekly and free of charge. Call 020 8892 0826
• Big Print Newspaper is a national newspaper and television guide available by subscription. Call 0800 124 007 for a sample copy.
• Richmond Adult Community College has IT courses, with computers and software designed for people with impaired vision. They also run courses for people who wish to learn Braille. Call the Disability Advisor on 020 8891 5907 extension 5032
• VISOR (Vision Impaired Society of Richmond) provide computer training. Call 020 8487 5082
• MAB (Middlesex Association for the Blind) provide computer training. Call 0845 8380 480