Energy costs visually impaired dear

Even before prices began to rise, one in five blind and partially sighted people said they had some or great difficulty in making ends meet.

It is deeply concerning that many are now using less energy to save money and afford the rising cost of living.

Blind and partially sighted people rely on additional lighting to get around safely, using taxis to travel independently and assistive technologies to help with day-to-day tasks – adding to energy costs.

People with sight loss also tend to rely heavily on various electrical domestic appliances, like talking microwaves, to maximise their basic independence.

People with sight loss generally are also unable to find discounts online due to inaccessible websites and they are often unable to see discounted items in retail outlets.

We intend to speak up ever more loudly on this issue, because it’s clear that people’s budgets are going to be under pressure for many months to come, and we fear that increased numbers of blind and partially sighted people will be feeling financial pressures this winter.

We will be increasing the practical assistance we offer to help deal with these economic pressures. Our helpline advisors can talk through and identify the financial support available in specific areas such as fuel poverty.

They can also provide advice on benefits, tax allowances and concessions that people with sight loss are entitled to and how to apply.

People with sight loss or their family or friends can call our helpline on 0303 123 9999, or if they have an Alexa device just say 'Alexa, call RNIB Helpline'. Alternatively, they can visit rnib.org. uk/advice or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.

James Adams, director of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Scotland