RNIB launches new “ground-breaking” low vision framework

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has established a “landmark” set of guidelines and framework designed to help low vision clinics provide best practice care.

Unveiled at a launch at the charity’s headquarters in London last week, the Low Vision Framework and good practice guidelines have been created in collaboration with blind and partially sighted people, as well as a cross-sector group of optometry specialists. 

The framework aims to “arm healthcare professionals to better support patients whose low vision is causing them difficulties with day-to-day activities despite having the best glasses or contact lens correction,” the charity explained.

Supporting the framework, the RNIB has also established a range of training resources for staff and referral routes from optometry.

RNIB’s clinical lead for eye health, optometry and low vision services, Louise Gow, said: “It’s crucial to ensure the unique needs of blind and partially sighted people as well as those awaiting or receiving a diagnosis of a sight-threatening condition, and those with low vision, are fully understood and addressed.” 

“We’re excited to introduce this pioneering Low Vision Framework, which represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and patient-centred approach in low vision care and encourage optometrists to use the guidance and sign up for the e-learning resources,” she added.

Professor of optometry at Anglia Ruskin University, Keziah Latham, explained: “This initiative gives everyone, including service users, clinicians, and commissioners, comprehensive evidence-based guidance on providing low vision services in line with best practice. I’ll be using these resources to enhance my own service provision.”