Helpful Stuff - organisations that offer support and info ( by country) = UK

The Macular Society - website, macularsociety.org ; helpline, 0300 3030 111 ; Facebook page, Working Age groups

RNIB - website rnib.org.uk ; sight loss advice service, shop, talking books

partsight.org.uk/

= A national charity " The partially sighted society"

Please feel free to add more!

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This isn't UK specific but has good emotional management info. ( they also have a Facebook page My Macular Degeneration )

Copied from someone who helped me & others :

....read how Sue got through her toughest times. she's a psychologist and she writes about how she used the therapy she knows on herself so that others can use it as well:

mymacularjournal.com

It's important for you to know that you are NOT alone!!! There are lots of people going through the same thing with the same fears. We CAN help you get through this!

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Text taken from recent Macular Society FB article:

"What do we do if we need help?

If it is help with shopping or care in the home, or even a chat, there are plenty of social outreach groups set up that you can access. Details are on Facebook, or via the government website and local councils. The national volunteer service

ncvo.org.uk/ncvo-volunteeri...

will provide contact details of groups that can help you with critical tasks. "

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TELEPHONE BEFRIENDERS Macular Society.

To sign up as a volunteer befriender, or to get regular friendly calls from someone who really understands macular disease, call 0300 3030 111 or visit macularsociety.org/telephone-befriending

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Access to Work is a government scheme whereby grants can be made for specialist equipment that enables anyone with a disability to remain working. They may cover the entire cost or the employer may need to top up.

The online form is simple to complete ( due to covid tel difficult). They say they aim to respond in 3 weeks.

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If certified as " partially sighted" or "severely sight impaired (blind)" copies are disseminated for you if you agree and you should receive an automatic referral to the local Low Vision Clinic ( in my area wait time 6 weeks).

Suggest ontact gp to ensure referral is done

Also good idea to register with local social services low vision team. They liaise with Low Vision clinic to help identify any home requirements to keep you safe and independent , also offer cane training.

You are free to accept or decline any offers of aid.