The Royal Society for Blind Children (RSBC) is a national charity that supports children and young people aged 0-25 who are blind or partially sighted to have the best possible start in life. We have 180 years’ experience of supporting the wellbeing of blind children and their families across England & Wales. Our vision is that every blind child and their family will have the skills and confidence to live their life without limits.
Our innovative and life-changing services focus on enabling blind young people to live a life without limits by building and improving confidence, skills, learning, health, social interaction and inclusion. They include:
A range of educational, social, creative, sporting, wellbeing, employment and practical life skills opportunities for children and young people to socialise, access mainstream community activities and boost personal development, self-confidence, life skills, find employment and build independence.
Families First service for parents and families: supporting families to cope with their child’s diagnosis through practical and emotional support services in their own homes.
Covid-19 Impact
Covid-19 has dramatically intensified the vulnerability and isolation of blind children and young people. Social distancing has reinforced feelings of loneliness, reduced chances for social interactions and brought on many practical challenges for blind young people.
‘When I go to the supermarket with my Dad, it has been difficult keeping to the distance rule especially with my eyesight’ (Jenna)
’‘I am someone that never uses a cane, but [now] it is always in my bag.’ (Aidan)
Now more than ever we need to make sure that support is available for blind children, young people and their families and this is why we have worked very hard to move our services to online.
