Expert Resources: visual impairment


These are the items that relate to visual impairment found on the AbilityNet website. They may be factsheets, webinars, news stories, blog posts or reports.

  • Two amazing ways that blind people can borrow other people's eyes

    Robin.Christopherson | 25 Feb 2019
    Blind and partially sighted people can now use their smartphone to benefit from someone else's eyesight. Robin Christopherson takes a look at two great examples of this life-changing tech.

  • New free app uses Apple's ARKit to help the blind find the way

    Robin.Christopherson | 11 Feb 2019
    A recent (and very misguided) craze was to blindfold oneself and try to undertake tasks that would normally only ever be done with your eyes wide open. The app we're taking a look at below is in no way an invitation to navigate your surroundings 'eyes-free' but, for those who are well-used to the...

  • New IKEA smart blinds helping the blind

    Robin.Christopherson | 23 Jan 2019
    Take a moment to consider the possible implications of a blind person or couple forgetting to close the curtains or turn off the lights before going to bed. Having no light perception means that that is a very possible eventuality - and perhaps even a regular occurrence. Now IKEA are helping bring...

  • What next for audio description on TV and advertising? TechShare Pro 2018

    Claudia.Cahalane | 14 Jan 2019
    It’s 25 years since the first audio described programme arrived on UK TV, believed to be Coronation Street. Last year more than 150,000 hours of television were broadcast with audio description in the UK - a big win for those who are blind or have sight loss. In addition, 2018 also saw the first...

  • Apps for students with sight loss

    Sophie.Shearer | 06 Nov 2018
    2 in every 1,000 young people (under the age of 25) have vision impairment in the UK and with future stats showing this number is likely to continue to rise with around 4.1 million people with sight loss in the UK by 2050. It’s important for us to invest thought and time in to alternative ways we...

  • Top ten apps for visually impaired students

    Daisy.Goodall | 23 Jul 2016
    Smartphones and tablets have helped to close the gap between disabled students and their peers, particularly in the form of apps. Here's our selection of ten apps that will help a visually impaired or blind student get the most from their education - and don't miss number 10 which is an app that...

  • Jack's work takes off

    Mark Walker | 12 Nov 2015
    Jack is in his mid-30s and works in a busy travel company. His sight has been getting worse for a while due to a congenital condition and has now asked for help from his manager.

  • Visual impairment and computing - common questions

    Alex.Barker | 01 Jun 2015
    Visual impairment can affect your eyesight in so many ways. The good thing is that technology can help you in many different ways.

  • Visual Impairment and Computing

    callum.grantham | 05 Feb 2015
    This session explores the impact of impaired vision in the workplace and identifies support that can be offered to address them.

  • Vision impairment and computing

    Alex.Barker | 27 Apr 2012
    This factsheet gives an overview of some of the main ways computers can be adapted to help anyone with a visual impairment. Some of these accessibility features are built into standard computers.