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Information about Low Vision Aids clinics for the Visually Impapaired

Most Eye Hospitals have clinics where you can get advice on 'low vision aids' which are usually various magnification devices which, as long as you have some residual vision, may help you to read, and see a little better at various distances.

Note however that you must practice with such devices, and when reading you will probably require extra light.

These clinics or Opticians are specialists who are able to assess your low vision accuity and suggest low or high tech aids which may assist you to read or see things better. Simple examples are magnifying lenses and binoculars, high tech aids are cctvs

Never purchase any high tech aid until you have given it a convincing trial for all the tasks you expect to use it for. There may well be low tech free aids which can do the job even better! Cctv's need an exclusive fair size table, a mains supply and are not portable, it may be that a free bespoke spectacle telescope with good ambient light may give you more freedom.

The Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) in Newcastle Upon Tyne. Eye Dept. Claremont Wing, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle on Tyne,NE1 4LP. Tel: 0191 227 5205: RVI Low Vision Aids Clinic.If you live in Northumberland or Gateshead the RVI clinic will also advise you if there is a specially appointed NHS Optician near to you.

Sunderland Eye Infirmary (0191) 528 3616

Some magnifying aids cannot be supplied free by the NHS, if you cannot get a particular product to try first then consider contacting your nearest private clinic or specialist optician

Robsons (private) Opticians in Newcastle

Gilbert Smith (private) in Billinghan. Teeside 01642 530801