Help with making telephone calls

• There is an ever-growing range of easy-to-see affordable telephones available in the high street in shops such as Argos.

• RNIB also has a range of landline telephones. They are all easy-to-use and have large, easy-to-see buttons enabling you to dial more confidently. The telephones contain less function buttons in comparison with standard telephones reducing confusion. Some have features which those with hearing loss may find useful and some models can be customized so ring tones can be personalised, enabling you to know who is calling. Visit the RNIB online shop to view the range

• BT provide a range of large button telephones. Call BT's disability helpline on 0800 919591.

• A memory facility which stores numbers for easy use is helpful

• Visit one of the KAB Resource Centres to see a selection of telephones and get bespoke advice

• It is possible to have your bills in large print, Braille or even via email. A Braille or large print telephone bill can be arranged. Just call 150

• Most keypads include a ‘pimple' on the number 5 to help sight impaired people orientate themselves around the keypad.

• Consider the Lifeline Service which offers 24 hour telephone alarm systems for people who are at risk or living alone. The user can call for help by pressing a button. At other times the phone can be used normally. Ask KAB for details.

• Rid yourself of those annoying unsolicited sales and marketing telephone calls by registering with: 

  Telephone Preference Service (TPS). There is no charge for this service.
  Address: 3rd Floor, DMA House, 70 Margaret Street, London W1W 8SS
  Web: www.tpsonline.org.uk
  TPS Registered Line: 0845 070 0707

People with a visual impairment are entitled to free directory enquiries. To register for this service:

• phone 0800 587 0195 and give your name and address

• a form will then be posted to you. Braille and large type formats are available.

• If you are registered severely sight impaired/blind or sight impaired/partially sighted, you will need to enclose with your completed form a copy of the registration certificate. If you are not registered your KAB rehab worker will need to sign the form to confirm that you need the service

• On receipt of the form, BT will send you a PIN. You can request a Braille or large print version of this

• To register for the service you should call the free directory enquires service on 195 and give your PIN

• BT also provide this service for people who are not BT customers. However if you use another phone company you should check with them that they will not make a charge when you use the 195 service.