NCBI has trained 10 peer support people in the Dublin area who are available to assist and support people with vision impairments who may be experiencing difficulties with everyday activities such as travel, shopping, personal care, socialising, banking, study, employment and many other practical issues.

As well as dealing with the emotional impact of sight loss, there are also practical aspects to consider. Sight loss may mean learning to do things differently or in new ways, which can be a major challenge.

Talking to a peer support person who also has a vision impairment may enable you to find practical solutions to difficulties you may be experiencing. Peer support people can also provide support and understanding from a personal perspective.

Peer support people usually meet with people for an hour once a week, or less as required, until you feel more confident about tackling any issues. The service is totally free and the peer support people are supervised to ensure that the relationship continues to work effectively for both parties.

If you feel you might benefit from talking to a peer support person, contact Jane Baird at NCBI, Whitworth Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, phone 1850 33 43 53, email jane.baird@ncbi.ie or speak to your NCBI Community Resource Worker who can make a referral.