One in four visually impaired people missing out on benefits

More than a quarter of visually impaired people are missing out on the disability benefits they’re entitled to, according to new research.

The study conducted on behalf of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) by the Centre for Research in Social Policy at Loughborough University found applications being refused and problems submitting claims were key factors in 83,000 people not receiving the money they’re owed.

Other issues resulting in people missing out include poor communication from the Department for Work and Pensions and claimants struggling to get to face-to-face appointments.

Most likely to miss out

The research revealed workers are among those with visual impairments most likely to go without the benefits they’re entitled to.

RNIB put this down to barriers caused by the stigma of claiming welfare and guilt about getting help while in work.

But policy officer Roisin Jacklin pointed out:

“Disability benefits are available to people with sight loss partly to help with the extra costs associated with disability.”

Those in low-income households and minority ethnic groups are also more likely to miss out, the study found.

Jacklin said:

“We urgently need a fairer and clearer benefit system so blind and partially sighted people don’t miss out and get the disability benefits they’re entitled to when they initially apply.”

Getting help

If you, or a relative or friend, with sight loss aren’t sure if you can get benefits, our free benefits calculator may help.

And RNIB can advise if your benefit application has been refused.