Most people with sight loss are independent and can do most things by themselves. However, sometimes they may need your help.

If you think that someone needs assistance:

• Say hello.
• Tell them your name.
• Address them by name, if you know it.
• Ask if you can be of assistance.
• The person will tell you if he or she needs help and what you should do.
• If a person would like you to guide them, let them take your arm just above your elbow. Do not push them ahead of you.

Other things you can do

• Be careful not to leave doors ajar and close cupboard doors to avoid the possibility of a person with sight loss banging their head.
• Always put things back where you found them, so that the person with sight loss can find them when you are gone.
• Make sure you don’t leave your bike or rubbish lying on the pavement, to avoid creating an obstacle.