RNIB Helpline Video Transcript
Peter Seaman:
I used to have a newsagent’s shop. It was a very busy shop and
we had a collecting box on the counter, by the till, for the RNIB. I
remember clearly looking at that box every day and looking at the
Helpline number: 0303 123 9999 – and that became imprinted
upon my mind. And for anybody who has sight problems, you
should get that imprinted on your minds, because at the end of that
number is the greatest help in the world you’ll ever receive.
My name’s Peter Seaman. I’m a sufferer of macular degeneration,
which was diagnosed some seven or eight years ago. It does
interfere with my life overall.
I’m a great user of the talking book system, which RNIB put me in
touch with through the Helpline, and from that led on all manner of
things.
Knowing that the RNIB Helpline is there available – it’s reassuring.
Norin:
I’m Norin. I live in London, aged 26, and I’ve been diagnosed with
a condition called retinitis pigmentosa – in short, RP – since 10
years now.
When I’ve been told I’m losing my sight, it was obviously shocking.
I think when I contacted first RNIB, it was like when I was
diagnosed with the condition. I wanted to know more about it, so
basically I contacted Helpline and they referred me to the eye
health team.
Poonam:
Good morning, eye health information service. Poonam speaking.
Norin:
They were really useful and I got more information about the
condition.
RNIB – supporting people with sight loss
RNIB charity numbers 226227, SC039316 and 1109
I used the RNIB Helpline for technology. I wanted to know what’s
going to help me, to buy technology with the special software.
RNIB Helpline has several services, but I think one of the important
ones is emotional support through the counselling services.
Kirsty:
I’m Kirsty. I’m 36. Three years ago, I was diagnosed with optic
neuritis. My vision has gone completely in my left eye. I’ve got
some vision in my right, but it fluctuates. They just said there was
nothing more they could do – there was nothing that was going to
bring the sight back – sorry – and it’s quite difficult just trying to
move on with your life.
With the RNIB, they’re there to support you and cushion you, and
they put me in touch with the RNIB counselling service that they
offer, which was just amazing.
Vicki:
Hi Kirsty – it’s Vicki from RNIB in Action counselling service. How
are you?
Kirsty:
Yeah, the week’s been okay. It’s been a bit difficult at times.
It’s helped put everything in my life into perspective. Without the
RNIB counselling service, I don’t think I’d be in such a positive
place as what I am today.
Norin:
I’d definitely recommend RNIB Helpline to anyone who has a sight
issue or anyone who have their family or friends with a sight issue,
because whether it’s technology, emotional support or daily life
equipment, I think they’re covering everything.
Call RNIB’s Helpline: 0303 123 9999.
RNIB Helpline is open from 8:45am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
Calls cost no more than a standard national rate call.
rnib.org.uk
Peter Seaman :
Please share our film – it could help you or help one of your friends
change their lives.
Voiceover:
RNIB – supporting people with sight loss.
Ends
rnib.org.uk