sight, however if their distress is connected to vision issues you should ensure that you are prepared to provide factual information from trusted sources. If a young person is struggling with new or recent sight loss, be positive and hopeful but avoid myths and false promises. It is important not to create expectations that may cause disappointment and further upset (171). Trusted organisations providing factual information for young people with vision impairment include the following:
RSBC RNIB British Blind Sport Guide Dogs Thomas Pocklington Trust
When you are sharing information, such as websites, leaflets, or phone numbers, keep in mind the different ways young people with vision impairment might need to access this. Remember to ask the young person what their preferred method would be. There are three main reading methods for you to be aware of: – Using sight to read print on paper or on a screen (this may depend on the font, text size, or screen contrast and will be different for each person) – Using hearing to listen to audio recordings or electronic speech – Using touch to feel a braille printout, an electronic braille display, or a tactile diagram (braille is a tactile writing system of raised dots that can be read by touch) (160) Signs of abuse Blind and partially sighted young people are at greater risk of abuse and neglect than fully sighted young people. This is due to many factors including increased isolation, communication barriers, misunderstanding signs of abuse, lack of education on
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