Visual impairment in Scotland: A guide for funders

Significant sight loss affects around 188,000 people in Scotland, a figure set to double by 2031. Sight loss can be devastating for those affected—many people end up losing their independence, feeling isolated, and becoming depressed.

Independent funders can make a big difference to the lives of visually impaired people in Scotland. This report aims to:

• explain the context for the vital work of charities and funders working on visual impairment in Scotland
• outline the priority needs of people with visual impairment in Scotland
• identify solutions, gaps in funding, and opportunities for funders
• examine the role of independent funders, setting out some questions that funders can ask themselves when prioritising their activities.

We hope that the report will enable funders to think through how they can have the greatest impact on the lives of people with visual impairment in Scotland.

With thanks to RS Macdonald Charitable Trust for supporting this work, and all those who contributed their time to the research.

See also Tackling child abuse in Scotland: A guide for funders.