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Visual impairment is the functional loss of vision. Based on data from a [http://www.nichcy.org/ National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities], "the terms partially sighted, low vision, legally blind, and totally blind are used in the educational context to describe students with visual impairments. They are defined as follows:

  • Partially sighted indicates some type of visual problem has resulted in a need for special education;
  • Low vision generally refers to a severe visual impairment, not necessarily limited to distance vision. Low vision applies to all individuals with sight who are unable to read the newspaper at a normal viewing distance, even with the aid of eyeglasses or contact lenses. They use a combination of vision and other senses to learn, although they may require adaptations in lighting or the size of print, and, sometimes, braille;
  • Legally blind indicates that a person has less than 20/200 vision in the better eye or a very limited field of vision (20 degrees at its widest point); and
  • Totally blind students learn via braille or other non-visual media.

    Visual impairment is the consequence of a functional loss of vision, rather than the eye disorder itself. Eye disorders which can lead to visual impairments can include retinal degeneration, albinism, cataracts, glaucoma, muscular problems that result in visual disturbances, corneal disorders, diabetic retinopathy, congenital disorders, and infection."

    • Blackburn and District Blind Society
    A registered charity for the visually impaired and blind. Includes information about its activities, links and contact details.

    The Blind Business Association Charitable Trust
    Promotes self-employment for visually impaired people in the UK by offering grants for equipment, education and training. Information about their activities, policies, and contact details.

    Blind Business Association Ltd
    Provides a forum for mutual support of people in the UK who are blind or partially sighted and in self-employment. Includes information on their activities, newsletter, and contact details.

    Blindcare
    A partnership of nine UK charities for the blind and partially sighted. Main purpose of the organisation is fund-raising. Offers advice on how to save tax through tax free payroll giving.

    Cornwall Blind Association
    Offers a range of services for the blind and visually impaired. Information about their Sight Centre, activities, volunteer opportunities, and contact details.

    Derbyshire Association for the Blind
    Providing a range of services to the visually impaired and blind in the county. Includes useful information, and details of services and volunteer opportunities.

    Fight for Sight
    Work and fundraising details supporting research into blindness. Includes research and donation details.

    Hampshire Association for the Care of the Blind
    Provides care and support to people with a visual impairment. Details of their services, activities, history, and volunteer opportunities.

    Kent Association for the Blind
    Information about the services provided by this local charity. Contains some useful information about common diseases affecting vision and some tips on how to make the most of remaining vision.

    National Federation of the Blind of the United Kingdom
    An organisation of blind and partially sighted people campaigning for better service provision and an enhanced quality of life. Includes details of publications and activities.
    Regional: Europe: United Kingdom: Business and Economy: Healthcare: Products and Services: Disability: Vision and Reading Aids
    Regional: Europe: United Kingdom: Education: Special Needs: Schools and Colleges: Blind and Visually Impaired
    Regional: Europe: United Kingdom: Health: Conditions and Diseases: Communication Disorders: Blindness and Visual Impairment




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