Frequently Asked Questions
Travel Concessions
If you are registered blind or partially sighted, you will be entitled to free travel on all modes of public transport in Scotland using the National Entitlement Card.
Under this system, a person who is registered blind is automatically entitled to bring a companion with them who would travel at a discounted rate. If you are registered partially sighted you may also be eligible for this companion concession, although there are certain criteria that you must meet. You must be either:
- In receipt of middle or higher rate of the care component of Disability Living Allowance.
- In receipt of attendance Allowance;
- Eligible to receive either of the benefits listed above;
- Living in a care/residential home or hospital.
For more information, contact Strathclyde Passenger Transport's Travel Cards Unit on 0141 332 6811.
Registration Process:
If you feel you would benefit from having your visual impairment assessed and registered, you should approach your G.P in the first instance. Your doctor can then refer you to an Ophthalmologist at the nearest hospital.
Registration is a voluntary process that leads to an individual being registered as blind or partially sighted.
There are two main parties involved in registration, a Consultant Ophthalmologist and the Social Work department. The Ophthalmologist will carry out a range of tests and examinations including assessment of your range and field of vision. A decision is then made as to whether you are eligible for certification as blind or partially sighted. When your sight has been assessed by the Ophthalmologist and you have given your consent to registration, a BP1 (Blind Person’s Form) will be completed.
When the Ophthalmologist has completed parts of the BP1 certificate, it is then forwarded to your local Social Work team. It is here that your details are registered. The Register is a confidential document and it is not distributed to anyone who is not directly involved with providing services for the visually impaired. A member of the Social Work team will then contact you. The length of time prior to a Social Work appointment will vary, depending on local staffing and resources.
Registration entitles you to certain concessions, which can be explained to you by social work or Visibility staff..
Local Visual Impairment Service
Your local visual impairment service is based in the social work department of your local authority. They can provide you with support to help you in your day-to-day life based on your individual needs. Support may include training in independent living and travel skills, the provision of certain pieces of equipment to help you in daily life, or information and tips on lighting etc. Please contact us at Visibility for details of your local service.