Registering as a blind or partially sighted person
How do I register?
You do not have to register as a blind (severely sight impaired) or partially sighted (sight impaired) person. But if you do, there are benefits and services which you may be entitled to such as additional tax allowances like working tax credit.
If you are being seen in hospital by a consultant on a regular basis, you should discuss how to register with your eye specialist or with a hospital social worker.
If you are not attending hospital, you should discuss it with your GP, who will refer you to a consultant ophthalmologist (eye specialist). Alternatively, you can contact the sensory impairment team to talk through your options.
When you visit the eye specialist, they will check your eyesight. If appropriate they will certify you as blind or partially sighted by the consultant.
What are the benefits?
People who are registered blind are entitled to:
- a blue badge parking permit
- additional benefits and tax allowances, in some cases.
People who registered blind or partially sighted are entitled to:
- a free radio from East Sussex Association for the Blind
- Blind & Disabled BT Directory Enquiries free of charge register by calling 195
- Free 1471–3 BT call back service, register by calling 195
- talking books from East Sussex library service
- concessionary travel
- leisure centre concessions.
You can find out more information by contacting our sensory and impairment team.
