How to guide someone with sight loss

Remember that people with sight loss may not be able to see and follow signage in buildings to find where they are going and may need guiding. Offer to meet them at reception and guide them to the space you are meeting. Always ask if this support is needed first and take heed of the level of guiding they require.

If a sighted guide is needed, offer the person your bended arm and let them walk slightly behind you. Never take the arm of a person with sight loss or propel them in front of you. You need to be in front of them so that you spot any obstacles first and guide around them. Keep pathways and walkways clear of obstacles and clutter, such as bags, furniture and A-boards etc.

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Guide Dogs Guiding Videos  Sighted Guiding Instructional Videos

This short video from Oxford University Hospitals explains how to guide effectively The Sighted Guide Technique – Vision Awareness Training Part Two – YouTube

Practical Sighted Guiding Training is available from My Sight Notts so you can ensure all your staff are skilled and confident in guiding patients or clients who have sight loss.

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