Low Vision Services in Wales: Helping You See Life More Clearly

At The Optical People we are proud to offer expert low vision services in our local practice for people of all ages who are experiencing sight loss. Whether you’re a child, adult, or older person facing challenges with your vision, we’re here to help you regain confidence, stay independent, and improve your daily life with personalised solutions tailored to your needs.

Why access low vision services?

Our Low Vision Service is designed to assist individuals who are finding it difficult to see clearly despite wearing glasses or contact lenses. If you’re struggling with daily tasks such as reading, recognising faces, or navigating your environment, we can provide the support you need to make the most of your available vision.

How to access our low vision service

To benefit from our low vision services, you’ll need to have had an eye test within the last 12 months (and be able to provide the results). If you haven’t had one recently, we can arrange this for you in practice. Alternatively, your current optician can refer you to us for a low vision assessment following your eye examination.

Are low vision services funded by NHS?

LVSW: Within Wales there is an NHS funded service known as Low Vision Service Wales (LVSW). People living in Wales can access this service and visual aids free of charge, providing they meet the criteria. As we are near the border it is useful to note that you are eligible if you have either an NP postcode or a Welsh GP. If you require a domiciliary service we can also signpost you, however in this case you must have a Welsh GP.

Privately: For those not in Wales low vision services, magnifiers, lighting and digital aids can be accessed by anyone privately (£90 per assessment).

Eligibility criteria

To ensure the service is right for you, you must meet at least one of the following criteria at the time of your assessment:

Difficulty seeing at a distance (worse than 6/12), even with glasses or contact lenses
Trouble reading standard print (N6), even with stronger reading glasses (+4.00 or more)
Significant visual field loss or other Impairment of visual function that make daily tasks challenging
Official diagnosis of Sight Impaired or Severely Sight Impaired

What to expect at your appointment

During your low vision assessment, our expert optometrist will carefully evaluate your needs and offer practical, easy-to-use solutions. These may include:

Magnifiers and visual aids to enhance close-up tasks like reading or writing

Specialist lighting designed for low vision, including task and reading lights

Digital aids that allow magnification and contrast adjustment to maximise visibility

Audio aids that will read out text

Expert advice on contrast adjustments and visual aids to help you get the most from your remaining vision

Signposting to local support services and relevant charitable organisations

Appointments typically last about 1 hour and are usually held upstairs, but we’re happy to make ground floor arrangements on request—just let us know when booking.

Registration as sight impaired/severely sight impaired (SI/SSI)

We understand the unique challenges that come with sight loss and are here to support you through every step of your eye care journey. If you or a loved one are experiencing significant sight loss, registering as sight impaired or severely sight impaired in Wales can allow access to important support services and benefits, including mobility aids, financial assistance, and priority healthcare services. Our specialised low vision optometrist is here to guide you through the criteria, certification process and ensure you have access to all the care and resources you need.

Why choose us?

We are dedicated to providing accessible, personalised care that helps you maintain independence and improve your quality of life, no matter your age or vision level. Our low vision service is designed to meet the unique needs of each patient, offering a range of practical solutions in a warm, welcoming environment.

Contact us today to book your low vision assessment or to learn more about how we can help you improve your vision and quality of life