Mr. Aaron Mullaniff:

We have seen at first hand what happens when there is a delay of onward referral to vision rehabilitation. The NCBI is cutely aware that vision rehabilitation can benefit 90% of all patients. Approximately 95% of people we work with have some useful or residual vision and our teams of low vision therapists support them to maximise that vision. Indeed, vision rehabilitation can also support people with congenital blindness and patients who present with complete blindness.

It is important that I take the opportunity to highlight the impact of a delay in referral. Where one does not see rapid onward referral, one sees challenges around the physical factors, with patients experiencing difficulties and struggling with the activities of daily living and household chores, right down to reading, watching television and the basics of even making a cup of tea. From a cognitive perspective, we see huge levels of isolation, loneliness and even depression. It is important that we also recognise the social aspect. Right now, one in four people of working age with a vision impairment is participating in the labour force. That does not necessarily mean they are employed. We see the impact of delays in that people are leaving their jobs as opposed to remaining in them. We have a dedicated employment, training and academia team that works with patients to support them. There is also an impact on engagement with family, friends and the wider community.