Rehabilitation Services
What Rehab Services can we Offer?
Each unitary authority in Gwent has a specialist Rehabilitation Worker to support people who are visually impaired. Many aspects of daily life can be affected by sight loss and can cause frustration and anxiety for individuals and their family or carers. Many of the problems that are associated with sight loss can be overcome with appropriate help and advice.
Rehabilitation Workers can help you to stay independent, regain lost skills or rebuild confidence following sight loss. This can be achieved through provision of information, equipment or training. Rehabilitation is very practical and could help you regardless of your sight difficulties
For example, if you have difficulties with making a cup of tea you may find that a Liquid Level Indicator (an audible gadget that lets you know when your cup is full) helps you to make a drink without spilling liquid everywhere. Or if you are having difficulties with using your magnifiers we are able to work with you to show you how to get the most out of using one.
So how do you get help from a Rehabilitation Worker? There are many ways to get the help that you require and the easiest way is to contact your local social services department and they will pass your information to your Rehabilitation Worker.
- Blaenau Gwent: 01495 322770
- Caerphilly: 0808 100 2500
- Monmouth: 01873 735900
- Newport: 01633 656656.
- Torfaen: 01495 762200
Alternatively, you can contact Gwent Association for the Blind on 01495 763650 and we will put you in touch with your Rehabilitation Worker. If you would like a friend or family member to refer you instead they are more than welcome to do this for you.
Some people may be seeing a consultant and are being, or have been, certified as blind or partially sighted. Once Social Services receive notification of your certification, they will contact you to find out what help, if any, you require and if it is appropriate refer you to the Rehabilitation Worker.
When the Rehabilitation Worker visits you they will carry out an assessment. This will help them to determine the type of support and help that you require. They will then provide you with information, equipment and training that is specific to you and your needs. In some cases they may need to refer you to another specialist, such as an occupational therapist, but this will be discussed and agreed with you first. The Rehabilitation Worker will work with you for as long as is required and ensure that you get the best possible support.
For more information please contact Gwent Association for the Blind on 01495 763650.
What People Say about our Rehab Workers
The following letter of appreciation was sent to one of our Rehab workers:
I write this two days after receiving the most impressive bouquet of exquisite perfumed flowers. I cannot express my grattitutde enough, they made my day.
Emma, you have been the sunlight in my life, someone to confide in, to chat to, joke with; quintessentially, an outstanding young lady. Inspired by your confidence I have progressed. life is not that bad anymore. I do not say goodbye to you; I cannot imagine Thursday afternoons without you. It will be very strange.
I regard you in the highest esteem. You are my friend, my little Guardian Angel. I am totally grateful for your dedication. I am forever in your debt my wonderful inspiring Emma!
You prove that visually impaired people can succeed with encouragement and patience. You will always be in my thoughts; a true treasure. I wish you luck in all you do and any goals you set, undoubtedly you shall succeed.
God Bless my angel, love you all the World xxxxxxxxxxxx
Elaine