A free mobile app helping to make the world more accessible for blind and low-vision people. The app connects blind and low-vision individuals with sighted volunteers and companies from all over the world through a live video call.

Download the free app (iOS or Android) to get started.

*This service is still running, despite the pandemic with social distancing in place*

Somerset Sight is the local specialist in sight loss and provides a range of information, practical and emotional support services for those with sight loss and their friends and family. We provide emotional support, face to face or by phone, with no wait list, to support people to adapt to and adjust to sight loss. We offer specialist gadgets, resources, lighting to make everyday chores easier and to enable people to remain independent, keep an active lifestyle and remain living in their own home for as long as possible. Basic technology training is available so people can make best use of technology available.

Our Mobile Advisory Service, offering specialist resources and advice is brought to Glastonbury, Frome, Shepton and Wells, visiting each location monthly from 10.30 – 3.30. Visit Somerset Sight website for the information.

Our Volunteer Visiting Service provides a trained befriender to help with reading,correspondence, getting out and about, to  reduce isolation and loneliness and to provide much needed practical support. We are agents for British Wireless for the Blind and have a well equipped library service.

COVID-19 Update: Please note due to current coronavirus restrictions this service may be affected. Please check with the service provider.

The Road Assured scheme is for any driver who has a health issue that may make driving more difficult or who is returning to driving, perhaps after an operation or a health episode. The scheme enables you to take a short, assessed drive with an Approved Driving Instructor who will give advice and produce a written report.

Self referral, GP referral or you can refer a friend with their knowledge.  There’s is a £50 fee for the Road Assured assessment

*Covid Pandemic Update- Extra safety measures are in place to continue to provide this service*

For home eye tests and home hearing tests free on the NHS.

You can borrow talking books free of charge, if you are registered with a visual impairment, are unable to hold or use printed material due to a physical disability or if you are dyslexic.

Enjoy a regular chat with a telephone befriender who shares your interests, experience or type of macular condition. Telephone befriending is free, everything can be set up over the phone.

COVID-19 Update: Please note due to current coronavirus restrictions this service may be affected. Please check with the service provider.

Somerset County Council’s sensory loss team are trained to work with people with sight and/or hearing loss. Workers can visit you at home and arrange to provide you with support to help keep you independent. Services include provision of equipment and rehabilitation, along with advice and information on a range of specialist organisations for people with sight and/or hearing loss.

Available to everyone affected by sight loss. Whether you’re losing your sight, blind or partially sighted, our practical and emotional support can help you face the future with confidence. Services include talking library books, specialist education for children young people and learning disability support. Services such as e-Learning courses are also provided to businesses, support workers and individuals to help understand and accommodate people affected by sight loss.

This website lists the Talking Newspapers which are available in your area. Listed are national, county-wide, Glastonbury and Frome Talking newspapers.