Visual Impairment Team

The Herefordshire Visual Impairment Team provides specialist teaching, assessment, and support for children and young people who have a significant visual impairment (VI). Their work helps ensure learners can access the curriculum, develop independence, and participate fully in school life.
 

Who the Team Supports

The team works with:

• Children and young people (5–16 years) with a diagnosed visual impairment
• Early years children, when referred
• Pupils in mainstream schools, special schools, and further education colleges
• Families, carers, and educational professionals
   

Children are usually referred via the hospital eye unit, though schools or other professionals may also make a referral if needed.
 

What the Visual Impairment Team Provides

Specialist Teaching & Learning Support

All teachers in the VI team hold the mandatory qualification for working with children with sensory needs and have extensive experience across early years, mainstream, and specialist settings.
 

Support includes:

• Adapted teaching strategies and multisensory approaches
• Support with literacy, tactile skills, and assistive technology
• Advice on modifying teaching materials
• Help accessing the curriculum in all subject areas
   

Mobility & Independence Training

The team can provide training delivered by a qualified rehabilitation officer, supporting children to develop independence skills such as navigation, mobility, and using low‑vision aids.
 

Assessment & Monitoring

The team helps assess what support a child needs at school, including:

• Classroom adaptations
• Lighting and contrast adjustments
• Seating and environmental considerations
• Access arrangements for exams
   

 Equipment & Resources

Support may include providing or recommending:

• Low‑vision aids
• Large print or braille materials
• Specialist technology
• Adapted learning tools
  (This is often coordinated with the hospital eye unit and NHS ophthalmology teams.)

Family & School Support

The team offers guidance for:

• Parents navigating diagnosis and early intervention
• SENCOs and teaching staff
• Multi‑agency teams supporting a child

They also contribute to EHCP assessments, annual reviews, and personalised plans.

How to Access the Service

If you are concerned about your child’s vision:

• Visit an optician or contact your GP, early assessment is essential.
• Children can have an eyesight test at any age (no reading or speaking required).
• The hospital eye unit will usually make the referral where needed.

Schools or other professionals may also refer directly to the team when appropriate.

Contact the Visual Impairment Team

01432 261584
viteam@herefordshire.gov.uk

https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/schools-and-education/support-for-schools-and-settings/teaching-children-with-sen-and-disability-resources-for-sencos/educational-support-for-children-with-a-visual-impairment/