There are a nunber of myths that have grown up around sight loss and people registered as blind or partially sighted. We will do our best to explain and clarify them.

Myth: Registered blind means that people have no sight at all.

Reality: Only 2% of blind people have no sight at all; most have some level of vision even if only being able to distinguish between dark and light. Many will still have functional peripheral vision or central vision.

Myth: Blind and Partially Sighted people don’t work.

Reality: Many people with sight loss have a huge variety of careers. Here are just a few examples of some our clients’ careers:

• Board Members
• Call Handlers
• Directors
• IT Specialists
• Managers
• Marketing
• Musicians
• Police
• Social Workers
• Accountants
• Solicitors
• Hairdressers
• Aromatherapists

Myth: Blind and Partially Sighted people can’t read.

Reality:There are many ways that people can access information dependent upon their eye condition. For example:

• Computer software that enlarges the screen.
• Audio software packages.
• Large print text.
• Audio books and newspapers.
• Braille.
• E-book readers.

Myth: Blind and Partially Sighted people don’t take part in cultural activities.

Reality: Many cultural organisations have audio descriptions and alternative interpretations for exhibitions, museums theatre performances, films etc.

Myth: Blind and Partially Sighted people can’t take part in sports.

Reality: There is a huge range of sporting activities that Blind and Partially Sighted people can take part in. Just look at our Sports and Leisure Activities section to name a few!

Myth: Blind and Partially Sighted people people can’t lead an active life.

Reality: Just take a look at our Inspirational People section to help dispel that myth!