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“Talk and Support” is a new service offered by the RNIB and is now available to those with sight problems, of any age across the UK. Its objective is for, a group of people (up to ten) to get together on a regular basis using the telephone and so allowing them to interact and gain confidence, share knowledge and offer and receive comfort.
The service is offers to those who find it particularly difficult to get out or feel isolated. This service is designed for use in the comfort of your home and you can tailor the group to your own interests, age or gender. If you have never used “Telephone Conferencing” before there is nothing to worry about, as there is always member of the group who can help.
There are two aspects to the talk and support groups. Befriending groups and tele support groups
The Tele Support groups are discussion groups on set topics around sight loss. These programmes run for a set number of sessions, approximately 3 - 6 weeks, and each session lasts for 45 minutes. Topics for 2004 will include
“How to make the most of leisure activities”
“Understanding the types of benefits available”
“Your legal and constitutional rights”
“Understanding eye conditions and the support available”
“There are also two Tele Support courses run specifically for carers.
I have participated in three of the tele support courses, and I have found them to be extremely helpful, full of useful information both from the course facilitator and from other people participating in the group.
Before the course commences an information pack is sent out in whatever format is requested, e.g. large print/tape. The pack includes a course summary, general guidelines and useful telephone numbers. Each course has a facilitator, and each participant and the facilitator is linked up by telephone for the duration of the session.
Until 2004 participation in courses, either tele support or befriending, has been available free of charge due to funding support from Barclays Bank. The RNIB are now requesting subscription charges, which work out around £4.00 per session however, the actual cost of the telephone call is paid for by the RNIB. I also believe that the RNIB are willing to look at ways around the fee for anyone having problems paying the subscription.
A full list of courses can be obtained from the RNIB on tel. 0845 330 3723 or by email: talkandsupport@rnib.org.uk
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