What is legally blind in the UK

So here's the thing - the UK doesn't actually use the phrase "legally blind" in any official capacity. We've got our own terms: "Severely Sight Impaired" (SSI) and "Sight Impaired" (SI). The World Health Organization's definition of blindness roughly lines up with what the UK calls SSI. To get that SSI label, your vision needs to be worse than 3/60 on the Snellen chart in your better eye (with glasses or contacts), or your field of vision has to be crazy restricted - think less than 10 degrees diameter. This whole thing breaks down what counts, how you actually get registered, and what perks come with it.

What are the official UK criteria for being severely sight impaired?

The NHS and DWP have set the rules here. To qualify as Severely Sight Impaired, you've gotta hit one of these three marks:

• Visual acuity of less than 3/60 Snellen: Basically, you see at 3 metres what someone with normal vision sees at 60 metres. That's rough.
• Visual acuity of 3/60 to 6/60 Snellen with a very restricted visual field: Like your field of vision is under 10 degrees diameter.
• Visual acuity of 6/60 or better but with a severely contracted visual field: We're talking less than 5 degrees diameter in your better eye.

An ophthalmologist fills out this form called the Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI) to confirm it. Just a heads up - the UK law doesn't mention "legally blind" anywhere. It's all about being Sight Impaired (SI) or Severely Sight Impaired (SSI).

How is visual acuity measured in the UK?

They use either a Snellen chart or a LogMAR chart to figure out your visual acuity. The Snellen chart is the standard here, where 6/6 is normal. They check your better eye with your best possible specs or lenses. Here's the breakdown for SSI:

Field tests matter a ton too. You could have decent central vision but such a narrow field that you'd still qualify as SSI. They use a Goldmann perimeter or automated perimetry to measure the widest part of whatever field you've got left.

What is the difference between Sight Impaired (SI) and Severely Sight Impaired (SSI)?

The UK splits vision impairment into two official categories:

• Sight Impaired (SI): Used to be called "partially sighted." This is for folks with 3/60 to 6/60 vision but a full field, or 6/60 to 6/18 with some field issues. Not legally blind, but it's serious.
• Severely Sight Impaired (SSI): The old term was "blind." This covers people hitting the tougher standards (acuity under 3/60 or super restricted field). This is the UK's version of "legally blind."

Honestly, loads of people still say "blind" for SSI in casual conversation, but the official name is Severely Sight Impaired. Signing up is optional, but it opens doors for benefits and help.

How do you register as Severely Sight Impaired in the UK?

The process goes something like this:

1. Eye examination: Head to an optometrist or a hospital eye clinic. If you meet the criteria, the ophthalmologist fills out a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI).
2. Consent: You've got to say yes to sending that CVI to your local social services.
3. Social services assessment: Someone like a rehabilitation officer or social worker gets in touch to figure out what you need - maybe mobility training or equipment.
4. Registration: Your local authority puts you on the register of visually impaired people. You get a card and a letter confirming it.

You don't have to register, but it's a good idea. It unlocks stuff like the Blind Person's Allowance, free NHS sight tests, and a cheaper TV licence.

What benefits and support are available for Severely Sight Impaired people?

Once you're registered as SSI, you might qualify for these:

• Blind Person’s Allowance: An extra tax-free £2,870 (for 2024/25) on top of the usual personal allowance.
• Attendance Allowance (over 65) or Personal Independence Payment (under 65): Covers daily living and mobility costs.
• Free NHS sight tests and vouchers for glasses.
• 50% reduction on the TV licence fee.
• Concessionary travel: Free bus passes and railcards in loads of areas.
• Access to social services: Things like rehabilitation, mobility training, and assistive tech.

You can get some of these without being registered, but it makes everything way simpler.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)