Our Low Vision Team are passionate about our patients who are impacted by a visual impairment.

Here are their tips on how everyone can help to make our patients' visits to the Trust a positive one.

• Small things like introducing yourself at each interaction can make a huge difference as some may not be able to recognise faces due to their eye condition.
• Letting your patient know where their food or drink is at mealtimes is important. If they don't know where it is they can't eat or drink. Helping patients with their menu choices if they are an inpatient.
• Keep belongings and ward buzzers within reach, and let your patient know where their personal items are.
• Each patient is unique, not everyone has the same level of visual impairment. Have a quick chat so your patient can let you know what they would like help with and what they are happy doing themselves. 
• Ensure colleagues know patient is visually impaired and that this is communicated at handover​ or if moving wards.
• Orient patients with the layout of your area or department, so they know where to find the toilet or where to go for help.

Orthoptist, Lorna Clarke, said: "Following these top tips means you can better ensure your patients safety, dignity and independence - particularly when they are vulnerable due to ill health."

For further information or advice, contact one of the Low Vision Team - Lorna Clarke, Laura Charlesworth, Emma Lee or Diane Lee.