Information should be accessible. Not just visible.
Blind, partially sighted and low-vision clients use different technology, formats and ways of working. We ask what is accessible to you and adapt our communication, documents, meetings and services.
Tell us what format works for you.
Some clients use screen readers. Some use magnification, enlarged text, high contrast, braille or voice control. Others prefer telephone conversations and verbal explanations.
A person may be able to read some text but find small print, low contrast, cluttered pages, glare or detailed graphics difficult.
We do not assume that every blind or partially sighted person needs the same adjustment. We ask what helps and record those preferences across the services you use.
Sight loss does not create one standard solution
Your preferred format may change depending on the type of information, device, location or task.
Screen readers
Documents and webpages need meaningful headings, labelled controls, sensible reading order and text alternatives for important images.
Magnification
Text and layouts should remain usable when enlarged, without forcing the reader to constantly move from side to side.
Contrast and colour
Strong contrast may help some people. Others may need a different colour combination or reduced glare. Colour alone should not communicate meaning.
Braille
Some blind people use braille, but many do not. When braille is needed, we can discuss appropriate external production or accessible digital alternatives.
Spoken information
Designs, layouts, figures and choices can be explained verbally instead of expecting the client to interpret a visual presentation.
Accessible files
A visually attractive PDF may still be inaccessible. We can provide structured documents, editable text or another suitable format.
Clear ways we can adapt our service
These options can be combined and adjusted as your project develops.
Accessible documents
We can use clear headings, logical structure, meaningful link text and accessible tables instead of relying on visual positioning alone.
Alternative file formats
Information can be supplied as structured Word documents, plain text, accessible email or another agreed format instead of an image-only PDF.
Large text and clear spacing
We can provide larger text, stronger contrast, simple layouts and additional spacing where that improves readability.
Verbal design walkthroughs
Logos, webpages, printed materials and layout choices can be described clearly during a call or video meeting.
No image-only instructions
Screenshots and diagrams can be supported by written or spoken explanations of the important content and action.
Keyboard-friendly processes
We aim to avoid processes that depend entirely on using a mouse, dragging items or locating small visual controls.
Forms completed together
We can work through forms by telephone or video and help enter information where appropriate.
Support person welcome
A support worker, personal assistant, family member or other trusted person can join meetings with your permission.
An accessible document needs proper structure.
Making text larger does not automatically make a document accessible. Screen readers and other assistive technology need headings, labels, sensible reading order and meaningful descriptions.
We can provide important information in an editable and structured format, rather than expecting every client to use a visually designed PDF.
Accessible meetings need clear information
We can reduce the need to interpret visual material during a live conversation.
Prepare the information
- Confirm your preferred document format.
- Send an accessible agenda in advance.
- Explain who will attend and why.
- Provide editable text instead of image-only files.
- Describe any important visual material beforehand.
Explain visual information
- Identify speakers clearly.
- Read out important figures and choices.
- Describe diagrams, colours and layouts.
- Avoid phrases such as “click over there”.
- Allow time to use assistive technology.
Confirm the outcome
- Provide a structured written summary.
- Confirm prices, dates and responsibilities.
- List the next actions clearly.
- Supply revised documents in the agreed format.
- Invite corrections where something is unclear.
Accessibility should extend beyond our own service.
When we help create or improve a website, we can consider how blind and partially sighted customers will navigate, understand and use it.
A logical heading structure helps users understand and move through the page.
Important images can include descriptions that explain their purpose or content.
Links and controls should be reachable without relying entirely on a mouse.
Keyboard users should be able to tell which link, button or field is currently selected.
Form fields need meaningful labels and understandable error messages.
Text and important controls should remain clear against their background.
Access should continue through every service
We can adapt how information is explained, approved and delivered throughout your project.
Ideas can be discussed verbally, with clear descriptions instead of relying on visual presentations.
Steps, documents and decisions can be explained clearly and provided in accessible formats.
Financial information can be supplied in structured, editable and clearly labelled documents.
We can work through forms together and avoid relying on inaccessible visual instructions.
Visual options can be described, compared and explained through conversation.
We can consider screen readers, keyboard navigation, contrast and accessible content.
Emails, quotations and documents can be created with accessibility in mind.
Your preferred formats and adjustments can be recorded for future work.
One main contact, with a wider team behind them.
Different specialists may help with design, websites, accounts, printing or another service.
Where possible, one main contact keeps track of the project and your preferred formats, technology and communication methods.
The same prices. Information you can access.
Blind and partially sighted clients are valued paying clients, not charity cases.
We do not provide our work for free. However, accessible documents, verbal explanations, alternative formats and reasonable communication adjustments are part of providing a thoughtful service.
Could Access to Work help?
Access to Work may provide funding for approved assistive technology, specialist equipment, travel assistance, support workers or other practical help when sight loss creates workplace barriers.
Business and accessibility support
Another Brilliant Idea provides business, communication and administrative support. We do not provide eye examinations, medical treatment, rehabilitation or clinical advice.
Tell us how you access information. We will work from there.
Book a meeting and tell us what you are trying to achieve, which technology or formats you use and which adjustments would make our services easier to access.
Causes of blindness, low vision and sight loss
Sight loss can be present from birth, develop gradually or happen suddenly. It may affect central vision, peripheral vision, visual detail, colour, contrast, depth perception or the way the brain processes visual information.
Sudden changes to vision may need urgent treatment
Get urgent advice for new flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, blurred or double vision, a dark shadow or curtain, eye pain, or a painful red eye.
Go to A&E or call 999 if you suddenly cannot see from one or both eyes, or suddenly develop severe eye pain.
Read current NHS guidance (opens in a new tab)Cataracts
A cataract develops when the lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. Vision may become blurred or misty, colours can look faded and bright lights may cause glare or halos. Cataracts commonly develop with age but can also be associated with diabetes, eye injury, previous surgery or some medicines.
NHS cataract information (opens in a new tab)Age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration, often called AMD, affects the macula at the centre of the retina. It can make reading, recognising faces and seeing fine detail difficult, while peripheral vision may remain available.
Support from the Macular Society (opens in a new tab)Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of conditions that damage the optic nerve. It often develops gradually without noticeable early symptoms and may first affect peripheral or side vision. Regular eye tests can help detect it before significant sight loss occurs.
Support from Glaucoma UK (opens in a new tab)Diabetic retinopathy
Diabetes can damage the small blood vessels that supply the retina. Diabetic retinopathy may not cause symptoms during its early stages, which is why attending diabetic eye screening appointments is important.
Diabetes UK eye information (opens in a new tab)Retinal detachment
Retinal detachment happens when the retina separates from the back of the eye. Possible warning signs include new flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, blurred vision or a dark curtain or shadow moving across the field of vision. Urgent treatment may prevent permanent sight loss.
NHS retinal detachment guidance (opens in a new tab)Inherited retinal conditions
Inherited sight loss includes conditions such as retinitis pigmentosa, Stargardt disease, cone-rod dystrophy and Usher syndrome. Different conditions may affect night vision, peripheral vision, colour or central detail.
Support from Retina UK (opens in a new tab)Vision problems after a stroke
A stroke can cause visual field loss, double vision, difficulties moving the eyes or problems interpreting what is being seen. A person may miss objects on one side even when the eyes themselves are healthy.
Support from the Stroke Association (opens in a new tab)Optic neuritis
Optic neuritis is inflammation affecting the optic nerve. It may cause blurred vision, blind spots, altered colour vision or pain when moving the eye. Multiple sclerosis is one possible cause, although optic neuritis can occur for other reasons.
Information from the MS Society (opens in a new tab)Keratoconus
Keratoconus affects the cornea at the front of the eye, causing it to become thinner and change shape. Vision may become distorted, blurred or sensitive to light and can fluctuate as the eyes become tired.
Support from the Keratoconus Group (opens in a new tab)Nystagmus
Nystagmus causes involuntary movement of the eyes. It can be present from early childhood or acquired later because of another eye, neurological or health condition. It may affect visual detail, depth perception, balance or the amount of time someone can comfortably use their vision.
Support from Nystagmus Network (opens in a new tab)Albinism-related low vision
Albinism affects the production of melanin and the development of the visual system. People with albinism may experience reduced visual detail, nystagmus, sensitivity to light and difficulties with glare, contrast and distance.
Support from the Albinism Fellowship (opens in a new tab)Charles Bonnet syndrome
Some people with significant sight loss experience vivid visual hallucinations known as Charles Bonnet syndrome. These images are caused by reduced visual information reaching the brain and are not, by themselves, evidence of a mental health condition or dementia.
Support from Esme’s Umbrella (opens in a new tab)Advice, independence, employment and local services
Specialist organisations can help with practical living, emotional support, assistive technology, mobility, employment, benefits and adjusting to changes in sight.
National information and support for blind and partially sighted people, including technology, employment, benefits and registering sight loss.
Visit RNIB (opens in a new tab)Services with and without dogs, including mobility, technology, independent living advice and support for adults, children and families.
Visit Guide Dogs (opens in a new tab)Employment support, careers advice, assistive technology guidance and mentoring for blind and partially sighted people.
Explore employment support (opens in a new tab)Advice, activities, education, advocacy and family support for blind and partially sighted children and young people.
Visit RSBC (opens in a new tab)Local charities may offer rehabilitation, equipment, social groups, technology training and practical support within the community.
Find local support through Visionary (opens in a new tab)Funding may be available for assistive technology, specialist equipment, support workers, travel or other approved workplace assistance.
Read our Access to Work guideInformation, not a diagnosis
This section provides general information and links to independent organisations. Changes in sight should be assessed by an optometrist, GP, ophthalmologist or another qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this page to diagnose the cause of vision loss or delay seeking urgent medical advice.