Our first contact with a visually impaired person can be through one of the hospital eye clinics, a referral from the Sensory Needs department in Social Services or simply by a phone call from the person themselves, a friend or a relative.

Once we are aware that someone needs our help or advice we will arrange to visit them at home. During that visit we offer information on special equipment, benefits and statutory services as well as practical support with paperwork and day to day problems within the house. We inform them about the various clubs, groups and holidays that the Society runs.

Quite often the most valuable thing visitors can do for the more isolated members are to listen and to offer support. Visiting Officers remain in touch with members for as long as our services are needed.

CASE STUDY

Following a request from the Sensory Needs Team, a BCBS home visitor went to see an elderly lady who is registered blind, suffers severe short-term memory loss and is unable to manage her day-to-day affairs. Feeling lonely and isolated, living in a block of flats with no close relatives other than a niece who lives in London and visits every couple of weeks, Mrs Y was very vulnerable.

BCBS’ initial visit brought to light that she had no food in the flat and was unable to locate her pension book or any other official documents. Bills were unpaid, despite her financial ability to pay, and she was living in a state of fear and confusion about her financial status. When accompanied on a hospital visit it became apparent that she was unable to understand what was happening to her and the consequences of what she was being told by the consultant.

BCBS set in place an intensive programme of support. Mrs Y was visited frequently by the home visitor whilst shopping was done, her finances were sorted out and her safety ensured. BCBS also alerted the Sensory Needs Team and Social Services Adult Disability Team of its concerns and a new assessment was undertaken, resulting in a comprehensive care package being put in place, and the niece was invited to play a greater role in the management of her aunt’s affairs.

Today BCBS staff continue to visit Mrs Y offering practical help, emotional support and social stimulation. These visits help to ensure that she is receiving all the help and support she needs