Information, Advice and Guidance
When you have sight loss, it can be difficult to find information about what services are available. Henshaws are here to help.
First Steps Service
Our First Steps Service is your first port of call when you telephone or email Henshaws’ Greater Manchester office.
The service can help you to get the support you need if you have sight loss. This could involve providing you with information, advice and guidance, or referring you to other services.
Our First Steps service can refer you to services within Henshaws, as well as other services including your local sensory team, and RNIB’s benefit check service.
The team also periodically contacts our service users, to ensure they are receiving the support put in place, and to gather feedback so that we can continually improve our services.
Certificate Of Vision Impairment (CVI) Service
Our Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) service ensures that anybody who receives a Certificate Of Vision Impairment is aware of available support at the time of registration.
Accessing Grants
At Henshaws, we understand the significant challenges faced by individuals living with sight loss and other disabilities. To support our community, we have compiled a comprehensive Grants Guide, designed to assist you in navigating the array of financial aid opportunities available from various charitable organisations. This guide provides detailed information on a wide range of grant-awarding charities that offer financial support for essential items and services not covered by statutory sources. We encourage you to explore these resources carefully and take advantage of the valuable assistance they offer to improve your quality of life and independence. Remember to consult with your Health & Social Care Team before applying to ensure that statutory sources cannot fulfil your needs.
Parent and Carer Support
We host a parent group and regular meetings for parents to share lived experiences and to gain knowledge and support from each other and carers alike. This is also a time for parents and carers to share their concerns and barriers to enable us to support and refer to the required service.
Sight Beyond Vision
A practical beginners guide designed to support those adjusting to life with visual impairments. It provides straightforward advice on understanding the emotional journey, the role of Eye Clinic Liaison Officers, and how Low Vision Clinics can help. The guide explains the Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI), registration benefits, local council resources, and financial support options such as Access to Work. With a jargon buster and a list of key contacts, it’s here to help individuals and their families connect with the right support to lead a fulfilling, independent life. Fill in your details to receive the full booklet.
