National Eye Health Week: Why support for people with sight loss matters

This week is National Eye Health Week (22-28 September 2025) – a national campaign dedicated to raising public awareness about eye health and supporting those with sight loss.

There are two million people in the UK living with sight loss – a large proportion of which have lost their sight later in life. As a result, many visually impaired people are forced to change the lifestyle that they have always known. Adjusting and learning how to incorporate new tools and techniques into one’s day-to-day life can be extremely challenging and daunting.

However, there is support at hand. JBD runs two monthly support groups for Jewish people with visual impairments in London and Hertfordshire. Losing your sight does not have to mean losing your independence.

At the monthly sight loss support groups, Jewish people with visual impairments can build connections with one another in a safe environment – one where their experiences and day-to-day challenges are fully understood. Attendees can also learn about the practical tools intended specifically to help visually impaired people take back control in their lives.

For instance, various GPS navigation apps can give users verbal directions, and screen readers can be used to read aloud what’s on your screen. These vital tools are often unknown, hence why it is so crucial to build spaces where those with sight loss can ask questions and receive specialist advice.

Organising and decluttering one’s home is another recommended way of ensuring safety by reducing hazards. Installing safety features such as non-slip mats or grab bars can also be crucial. Whilst these recommendations may seem so simple, the impact they often have cannot be understated.

This National Eye Health Week, JBD recognises the importance of providing people with a sight loss a sense of community and practical support. JBD recognises how vital it is that people can learn about the tools available to be independent and safe.

For more information about our support groups, click here.

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