Although Kent Association for the Blind (KAB) is the main service provider for sight impaired people living in Kent, the Unitary Authority of Medway and the Boroughs of Bromley and Bexley, there are many other organisations who can also offer assistance. Below is just a sample of these:-

• Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is a national charity which provides information about all aspects of visual impairment including benefits and welfare rights, advice on grants, education and employment. Special equipment and useful products can be ordered by telephone or online. Catalogues are available from RNIB Customer Services. For all enquiries contact RNIB, Telephone: 0303 123 9999, Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.rnib.org.uk
• The Partially Sighted Society sells equipment and offers advice on any aspect of living with impaired sight. Their quarterly magazine is called "Oculus". Telephone 0844 477 4966 or visit Website: www.partsight.org.uk
• The Disabled Living Foundation provides a wide range of advice and literature about all disabilities. Equipment can be viewed at their Demonstration Centre in west London. Helpline 0845 130 9177, website: www.dlf.org.uk
• The BBC produces "In Touch", a Radio 4 programme on Tuesday evenings containing information and items of interest for people with impaired vision. There is a phone line after the programme for questions and comments. Telephone: 020 7580 4444.
• The National Federation of the Blind (NFBUK) welcomes all people who are blind or partially sighted and over the age of 16 years to join. The Federation campaigns, holds local meetings and publishes the bi-yearly journal "Viewpoint". Telephone: 01924 291313, E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• The British Gas Home Energy Care Register is a Priority Service Register for gas and/or electricity customers who are elderly, disabled or chronically sick. Benefits include specially designed appliance controls and adaptors, talking bill service, enlarged and Braille bills, free yearly gas safety check and priority attention for all services.Telephone: 0845 955 5404
• KAB can also arrange with any utility companies and Borough Councils to use the personal password service to gain entrance to your home. Ask the caller to give your password before you open your door or remove the security chain.
• Most companies provide large print, audio and Braille bills if required. Contact your supplier accordingly.
• Cobolt Systems Ltd specialises in selling audible products and other useful items, which can be ordered by telephone or online. Catalogue available. Telephone: 01493 700172 Website: www.cobolt.co.uk
• Another company who has a large range of equipment designed to meet the needs of sight impaired people is S.W. Retail. Their catalogue includes large print puzzle books, magnifiers, kitchen gadgets, anti glare glasses etc.

Telephone: 01226 762513 or 01226 762528 E-mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it Website: www.swretail.fsnet.co.uk Subject to people meeting the eligibility criteria, KAB is often able toissue equipment free of charge. Call your local Sight Centre or our Helpline on 01622 691357.