Launch of the Successful New Low Vision Service for Barking, Dagenham and Havering

Press Release: Friday 28th October 2005

The Yew Tree Resource Centre in Romford has officially launched its pilot Low Vision Service.

This is a pilot being run on behalf of the Department of Health, aimed at testing a new and innovative approach to helping people with sight loss make the most of their remaining sight. It is a very clear example of how integrated health and social care services, in conjunction with the voluntary sector, can work for the benefit of the service user.

What is special about this service is its commitment and ability to provide adults with low vision support and assistance, with the aim of improving every day living and promoting independence. Clients attending the centre will have an assessment with both a Low Vision Therapist and an Optometrist on the same visit. This gives the service user a comprehensive vision assessment and also practical help with any low vision aids such as magnifiers, as well as advice on their home to assist them to undertake the activities that they are having difficulty with.

The Project Manager, Matt Watson, is delighted with the success of the pilot scheme. Initially it was clear that all professionals and people accessing the service had to support this new way of working in order to secure the project's success and due to the real enthusiasm, commitment and professionalism of all involved, the future looks very positive indeed.

The pilot site owes its success to the full support and close working relationships of all partners these being Barking & Dagenham and Havering Primary Care Trusts and Social Services and RNIB and of course the input of the people using the service

You can contact the centre on 01708 755970 or at:

The Low Vision Service, Yew Tree Resource Centre, 20 Yew Tree Gardens, Romford, RM7 9AA.