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Local Authority Social Services

These Statutory Authorities are the only body who can place you on the register after both an Eye Consultant and yourself have signed a form BD. Note that it is up to whether you agree to registration or not, and you are free to remove yourself at any time. If you agree thus body are responsible for issuing you with a Certificate of Registration as Blind or Partially Sighted, but not until they receive a completed Form BD8 from your Hospital. This is an important document which must be produced to obtain other benefits e.g. various travel concessions, free telephone directory enquiry services, free library services, etc. When on the Blind register you can claim a special personal tax allowance and 50% reduction on your home and week end cottage TV licence. You should always keep a spare photocopy or two of your registration certificate (Not the BD8) for claiming concessions.

When they receive your BD8 it is a statutory requirement that Social Services contact you by telephone or visit within a reasonable time. It is recommended that you NEVER decline this service as it is most probable that they can offer you some assistance, either now or if your sight deteriorates - as it frequently does.

It is then their duty to find out your needs and to offer assistance and advice as required. This includes all rehabilitation services such as teaching you how to undertake your home tasks like cooking, cleaning etc., getting round in your home and outside, using public transport, communicating with people by telephone and several other levels of assistance depending on your needs. They should always hold stocks of free issue special equipmentwhich you may need.

'Rehabilitation workers'are special people whose prime job is to help everyone who has lost or looses their sight. They know how to help you be independent - many experience sight difficulties themselves. Their services are normally always free as they work for Local Authority Social Services or Charitable Voluntary Organisations.

They may be able to organise Home Help, meals on Wheels, loan of equipment, readers, etc.

They usually operate through 'Sensory Support' Teams.

Newcastle Social Services (0191) 278 8100

North Tyneside Social Services (0191) 200 6050

South Tyneside Social Services (0191) 427 1717

Gateshead Social Services (0191) 490 1616

Northumberland Social Services (01670) 533 824

Full addresses and contacts where known