Kent Association for the Blind (KAB) is the main service provider for blind and partially sighted people living in Kent, the Unitary Authority of Medway and the Boroughs of Bromley and Bexley. Below is a list of the many services KAB provides:-

• Following confirmation by an ophthalmologist that a person is eligible, KAB provides a registration service which includes giving information on sight related concessions and benefits as well as details on where additional information, advice and guidance can be found.
• We provide advice, equipment and run groups to help people remain independent in their own homes.
• We can advise on low vision aids (magnifiers) and give guidance to improve reading skills.

We employ staff who specialise in working with people who have a sight loss and a learning difficulty.

• KAB employs staff specifically trained to help people move around outdoors independently.
• KAB is happy to carry out environmental assessments to ensure that public areas are safe places for sight impaired people to negotiate.
• We carry out Awareness Training for carers, volunteers, health workers or those likely to come into regular contact with sight impaired people.
• KAB has a Guide Communicator Service to meet the needs of those with a dual sensory loss.
• KAB offers a transcription service with the capability of producing material in large print, Braille or audio.
• KAB has a very popular Talking Newspaper Service which is free of charge.
• KAB offers an E-mail List so people can be notified of events taking place, such as audio described theatre performances, rambles, adapted museum exhibitions and much more. Just call us with your e-mail address for this free service.
• We hold regular Forum Meetings where those with a sight loss can influence the services we provide - call our Helpline if you would like to take part.
• KAB recruits, trains and places volunteers in a variety of situations i.e. befriending, helping at one of the many clubs across Kent, helping at one of our Sight Centres, providing transport to enable people to attend one of our Rehabilitation Groups. Call us if you would like to know more.
• KAB has Sight Centres in Maidstone, Canterbury and Bromley where people can see a wide range of equipment designed for the special needs of those with a sight loss.
• Exhibitions of equipment and services are held annually across the county - call our Helpline to find out when the next one is in your area.
• KAB has six Sight Centres spread across Kent, each of which operates a daily Duty Service to deal with a variety of enquiries. Call our Helpline for further details 01622 691357or