Blind Parents UK are a peer support organisation for blind and visually impaired parents and parents-to-be. Here’s what they say about themselves and their services:
Our services are completely free and offered by our dedicated team of volunteers, all of whom have a visual impairment themselves. We never turn down enquiries from family members, friends or professionals and we will help in whatever way we can. Have an occasional question that needs answering, or want everything we can give you? We’re here!
We support first time parents-to-be, through to great grandparents, and our lively community sees a constant flow of questions, information and stories from our active members.
We are very proud of our peer-support model, believing the best people to help are those who have been through similar situations.
- Website: www.blindparents.uk
Where you will find a free, confidential membership form, so we can provide the correct support quickly and efficiently for you. - Telephone: 01905886252
Answering machine service, we aim to return your call within 48 hours, often sooner. - E-Mail: info@blindparents.uk
For enquiries 24/7For members (visually impaired parents or parents-to-be), we provide:
• One-to-one peer support for all phases of parenting: pregnancy and birth, feeding, slings, befriending, getting out-and-about, schooling, technology and more.
• Access to qualified sling consultants, breastfeeding supporters and technology specialists.
• Closed and safe Facebook groups:
– www.facebook.com/groups/bpukmums (mums only)
– www.facebook.com/groups/blindparentsuk (for all VI parents).
• WhatsApp groups for new Mums, Dads, or those who do not use Facebook.
• One-to-one technical support sessions.
• Help with locating and choosing suitable equipment and other resources, for example the loan of a carrier, accessible books and so on.
• Support to find out what’s available in your local area.
• Information on local and national services, including direct payments, Homestart, etc.
• Find-A-Parent: be linked up with someone nearby whether for chats or meet-ups.
• Frequent chat groups, covering topics such as bumps and babes, toddlers, cooking, primary school, teenage years and general chat.
• The opportunity for members to join our team and support others in various roles.
For others (Professionals and family) we provide:
• An open Facebook page for professionals, friends and family to like us at: www.facebook.com/blindparentsuk
• The circulation of research opportunities, information about other relevant organisations, events etc.
• Someone to talk to you about the differing needs of visually impaired parents. We’ve helped many professionals so far including midwives, social workers, rehab specialists, guide dog trainers and documentary researchers
