If you have a vision impairment, or are registered as either sight impaired or severely sight impaired a specially trained and accredited Low vision optician/optometrist) can help you make the best use of the sight you have.

There are currently many of these specially trained low vision practitioners working out of high street opticians throughout the whole of Wales. For a list of those in Breconshire click here.

Once you have contacted your local Low vision practice they should offer you a free hour long appointment.  The assessment is designed for you and the Low vision optician to discuss your eyesight condition and the difficulties this may present in your day to day life. The Low vision optician will then talk to you about what you would most like help with, such as reading cooking instructions, paying bills, watching television, dealing with medicines or tablets, completing school work or even working on hobbies. The practitioner may then get you to try out a number of different low vision aids such as handheld or stand magnifiers, task lights, electronic magnifiers, shields and/or reading stands etc. specific to your requirements.

Between you, you will decide which (if any) low vision aids may best help you and how to use them to best effect. These will then be ordered free of charge for you to take home on loan for as long as you may need them.

They may also be able to give information or refer you to other local organisations that may be able to provide services and support to help.

More information about this service can be found on the NHS web site.  or contact by phone on 01267248793