This article looks at the significance of the RNIB Needs Survey (1991) for social services depart ments and in particular at some of the implications for meeting the needs of consumers who are blind and partially sighted. It considers the inadequacies of the present position and the lack of satisfactory services for many blind and partially sighted people, both registered and non- registered. The facts collected in the survey provide an opportunity for taking steps to bring about essential changes, both in the assessment of needs and in service delivery.
References
1.
ADSS Press Statement, October 15, 1991.
2.
A Wider Vision - the management and organisation of services to people who are blind or visually handicapped (1988), Social Services Inspectorate, Department of Health.
3.
Bruce, Ian, McKennell, Aubrey and Walker, Errol (1991), Blind and partially sighted adults in Britain: the RNIB Survey, Volume 1, HMSO.
4.
Co-ordinating Services for Visually Handicapped People, Report to the Minister for Disabled People (1989), DH/HMSO.
5.
Good Sense Guide (1991), Social Services Inspectorate. Department of Health (see also 'To be Noted' page 35).
