The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), Guide Dogs and the Thomas Pocklington Trust are seeking participants for a new joint study to uncover the realities of life for blind and partially sighted people in the UK today.
The research, which will be conducted by interviews with people with visual impairment, is designed to help build an accurate and up-to-date view of the experiences and needs of blind and partially sighted people. The results will be shared across the sector to improve services and support for people with a vision impairment.
Hilary Ingleton, RNIB head of research and insight, said: “This new study is the first of its kind. By working collaboratively with Guide Dogs and Thomas Pocklington Trust, we can generate better intelligence, which can then be shared across the sector to make a bigger impact. By taking part, you will have a direct hand in the future of support for blind and partially sighted people in the UK.”
Helen Vaterlaws-Whiteside, head of innovation at Guide Dogs, said: “It’s vital that we really understand the needs of blind and partially people and the realities of their lives so we can offer the right support. We want to hear in-depth about people’s experiences, hopes and ambitions, so by taking part in this research you can help us shape and develop the services people with sight loss need and expect.”
Phil Ambler, director of evidence and policy at the Thomas Pocklington Trust, added: “This research will be used to inform our work, helping us to target our services, working jointly to make a positive difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people.”
Research will be carried out via a telephone interview by research partners Acumen and DJS Research and may last up to 50 minutes.
Participation is voluntary; interviewees can withdraw from the study at any time and all data is anonymised.
To register an interest in taking part, telephone 0161 507 7360, email sightlossresearch@acumenfieldwork.com or click here.