Getting a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI)

Becoming registered as vision-impaired can be a confusing experience. Visibility Scotland is here to help.

Registration: the facts 

What is registration?  

Your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) may suggest registration if you have significant sight loss that is unlikely to improve. There are two levels of registration: sight impaired (partially sighted) and severely sight impaired (blind).   

 

Each local authority holds the vision impairment register for its area. This information helps them plan and provide local services for people with vision impairment.   

 

Registration is optional and will not be done without your consent.  

  

What happens if you consent to be registered?  

Your ophthalmologist will complete a form confirming that you are eligible to be registered as sight impaired or severely sight impaired, depending on your level of vision.   

 

They will ask you for permission to pass your details to your local authority. Your local authority will add your name to their register with your agreement, and they will send you a Certificate of Vision Impairment (CVI). Remember that registration is your choice.   

 

Your local authority will contact you to arrange an assessment. There may be a wait for this. Their support may include aids and equipment or training to help you do things for yourself and be more confident outside.  

 

If you are not registered, you may still be able to receive support from your local authority. If you are registered, the local authority is obliged to assess your needs.  

 

How Visibility Scotland can help 

Visibility Scotland’s Patient Support and Listening Ear services provide information and advice to people going through the registration process. To find out more information, visit the links at the bottom of this page or contact us by emailing info@visibilityscotland.org.uk or calling 0800 987 1087

 

Benefits of registration 

Help and support 

Registration provides access to local help and support. Following registration, you can apply for several concessions, which vary depending on your level of registration. Some of the concessions are listed below.  

 

If you are registered as sight impaired, you will be entitled to:  

• free travel on buses, trains and some ferries in Scotland  

• free directory enquiries service through BT  

 

If you are registered as severely sight impaired, you will be entitled to the above plus:  

• concessionary travel on buses and trains for a companion  

• 50% off your TV licence  

• an extra income tax allowance  

• car parking concessions through the blue badge scheme (there may be a charge for the badge)  

 

Being registered does not automatically entitle you to any welfare benefits, but it may make it easier for you to claim them. Registration confirms your sight loss and can be used as evidence towards your claim. 

 

Paving the way for the future 

One of the often-overlooked benefits of vision registration is the ability to collect robust and reliable statistical data. This data provides essential insights into the prevalence, causes, and geographic distribution of vision impairment, enabling more accurate forecasting and needs assessment.  

 

With this information, policymakers and healthcare planners can make evidence-based decisions, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and equitably. It also strengthens the case for funding and development of specialised support services such as vision rehabilitation, both locally and nationally.  

 

In essence, vision registration benefits individuals by connecting them to services and drives systemic improvements that can lead to better outcomes for everyone affected by vision impairment.