Registering with NCBI
Summary: What are the benefits of registration with NCBI and what is the procedure? Find out more about registration.
If you are registered with the NCBI you may be entitled to claim certain benefits and allowances from the Department of Social and Family affairs and the Health Service Executive.
What is registration?
The NCBI holds statistics of those using our services and of those who fulfill the criteria for registration as ‘blind’ in Ireland.
Why should I register?
You need fulfill registration criteria to claim benefits and allowances. Registration will confirm that you have sight loss and are therefore eligible for certain entitlements. Your registration form needs to be submitted with your application for a payment from the department of social and family affairs and the health service executive. Registration also helps to keep a record of the number of people with sight loss in Ireland so that we can plan and provide the best service for you.
How do I register?
A consultant eye specialist or an optometrist must complete a registration form. NCBI can post you a registration form to bring with you to your next appointment with your eye specialist/optometrist or we can post a form directly to them. If you are not already seeing an eye specialist ask your doctor to refer you. The registration form requests your contact details, your level of vision and your diagnosis. Your eye specialist/optometrist will complete this form and forward it your local community resource worker who will then post it onto you.
NCBI Community resource work service
If you have not already done so, it may be helpful for you to contact your local NCBI community resource worker. Your community resource worker can visit you at home or if you would prefer you can drop into see them in our local office. Your community resource worker can assist you with registration and with applying for benefits and allowances. Your community resource worker can also provide you with emotional support and practical advice.