Cuts risk pushing blind back ‘to margins’

PUBLIC spending cuts could push blind and partially-sighted people “back to the margins of society”, a charity has warned.

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Scotland says councils must safeguard the right of those with disabilities to lead independent lives with dignity.

The charity made the call as it launched its manifesto ahead of the Scottish local authority elections in May. It said cuts to welfare benefits, together with a reduction in vital services, would mean a “grim future” for those affected.

Director John Legg said: “Scotland’s local authorities are the most important day-to-day agent in the lives of many blind and partially-sighted people, but cuts to spending could decimate the support they offer over the next few years.

“Services such as talking books and accessible education materials are vital if adults and young people with sight loss are to take part in an inclusive society.

“If these are cut – at the same time as welfare benefits are tightened nationally – it will mean a grim future for some of the most vulnerable people in our society.”

Mr Legg said 188,000 people in Scotland were blind or partially-sighted. “With sight loss projected to double over the next two decades, this will have major implications for public services. Inevitably, local authorities will be the first port of call for many seeking help,” he added.

The charity said the proposals outlined in its manifesto were cost-effective and recognised the pressure council finances will be under over the next few years.

The RNIB Scotland manifesto is calling on councils to ensure around 2,100 blind and partially-sighted school pupils have access to the same educational materials, at the same time, as their peers. It also urges councils to reserve at least one procurement contract to a social business which employs workers with disabilities.