Do you have sight loss that is affecting your work, studies or independence?
There is a specialist advice and support service available for you locally via an Eye Clinic Liaison Officer (ECLO). ECLOs assist anyone with sight loss, their relatives and carers to access the support they may need, when they need it. The ECLOs are based in local hospital eye departments at Durham, Sunderland, Darlington, Newcastle and Middlesborough. If you wish to discuss your situation, you can contact your ECLO directly or ask your Optometrist/GP to refer you for advice.
They provide help with:
Understanding your eye condition
Assisting with the processes of certification and registration
Access to local support groups or recreational activities
Developing or maintaining independence
Aids and technology to make life easier
Employment advice
Advice and support for carers
Benefits and concessions
Education Advice and support for children/young people and parents
Direct contact information for ECLOs:
RVI:
Dawn Rafferty 07740 515251 Dawn.rafferty@rnib.org.uk or
Rosie Clarke 07850 974470
Both on nuth.eclo@nhs.net
Sunderland Eye Infirmary:
Andrea Hird 07803 495399 Andrea.hird@rnib.org.uk
County Durham & Darlington:
Mike Ferguson 07740 501158 or
Kate Jakubovics 07849 701147 (Locum)
Both on cddft.eclo@nhs.net