London Taxicard scheme
Taxicard offers subsidised travel in licensed taxis and private hire vehicles (mini cabs) to London residents with serious mobility impairments or who are severely sight impaired. In light of Covid-19, the following extension has been made to the Taxicard scheme. Taxi drivers can pick up and deliver essential supplies for the scheme member or allow friends and family to travel on the card holders’ behalf for the same purpose. Travel to medical appointments and collecting medication will also be allowed on the scheme. The taxi booking number is 020 7763 5001.To apply for a Taxicard call 020 7943 9791.https://www.londoncouncils.gov.uk/services/taxicard
Eye Health
During this time, you may be concerned about attending eye clinic appointments. Hospitals have rearranged their clinics to reduce the risk and minimise contact with other patients and staff. You can always call the hospital to seek advice. If you have a sudden change in your vision or new symptoms, contact your optician or eye doctor immediately. It is important you seek help, please don’t ignore symptoms. Moorfields Eye Hospital are offering virtual appointments for patients using Attend Anywhere technology via smartphone, laptop or PC.
Shopping for food and essentials
Supermarkets are changing their delivery services to prioritise the needs of clinically vulnerable people, but we know many people are still struggling. The situation is changing daily and we are taking action to raise your concerns directly with the supermarkets. NHS volunteers across the UK are collecting essential supplies for people unable to leave the house. If you are worried we can help.
Getting out and about
Although social distancing can be difficult, it’s really important for your mental and physical health that you still go outside and get exercise. So, if you don’t live with someone who is able to guide you, think about using your cane to alert people to your sight loss when you go out. Alternatively, you can let others know of your proximity verbally and that you are unaware of exactly where they are.
Keeping connected
During this time, it’s especially important you stay connected with the outside world; whether it’s having Skype calls with family and friends, joining a Talk and Support group through the RNIB Helpline or signing up to a Keeping in Touch call with Guide Dogs. There are many sight loss forums available and most are open to your family and friends too. Having regular contact with people will help you to stay feeling positive.
If you also want to stay connected with the latest developments and information on coronavirus (COVID-19) and sight loss, listen to RNIB Connect Radio, the UK’s radio station for blind and partially sighted people. It’s available on Freeview 730 and online www.rnibconnectradio.org.uk
Contact us
RNIB’s Helpline (0303 123 9999) is open from 8am-8pm on weekdays and on Saturdays from 9am-5pm.
Guide Dogs’ COVID-19 information line (0800 781 1444) is open on weekdays (from 9am-5pm).
We know this is a difficult time and many people are feeling worried and isolated. These are just a few of the ways we can help you during this time - there is lots more advice for blind and partially sighted people available. So, please get in touch if we can help.
Stay safe.
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Last edited: 22 May 2020 11:40 am