How to get registered

If you are concerned about your eyesight, it will help you to know that there’s plenty of support available. You’ll need to engage in the following steps:

  1. Visit your GP or optician and let them know about your problem
  2. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist (eye consultant). You can be seen by the consultant at Bristol Eye Hospital, but for the majority of conditions, you’ll visit the Eye Department at Weston General Hospital.
  3. At your appointment with a specialist, you’ll find out about treatment options if needed.
  4. If your specialist feels that your sight meets the criteria to be certified as sight impaired (SI) or severely sight impaired (SSI), you will be given a ‘CVI’ (Certificate of Visual Impairment). Your GP and Vision North Somerset will also receive a copy.
  5. Once we have a copy of your certificate, we’ll be able to carry out the registration process on behalf of North Somerset Council.

Why should I be registered?

Everyone who’s registered is eligible for a range of support services.

Registration also helps your health and social care authorities to plan services for the number of people in need. It also means you’re able to explore all the help available to you – including the possibility of an additional tax allowance for everyone with sever sight impairment. Our staff can help you through this process.

The Assessment

As part of the assessment you will be asked questions about what help you might need to help you to manage to stay independent. Questions might include:

  • Can you manage to make meals for yourself?
  • Can you read your correspondence?
  • Are you able to go out and about safely?
  • What would you like to be able to do and can no longer manage because of your sight loss?

We’ll discuss your needs and offer plenty of advice and support.  We’ll tell you about other agencies that can help too.