This afternoon Greg Smith MP was pleased to meet with representatives from RNIB (Royal National Institute of Blind People) to hear directly from those suffering with sight loss about their experience.
In the Buckingham constituency alone there are over 3,500 people living with sight loss, an increase of 28% since 2010, whose conditions range from cataracts and Glaucoma to diabetic eye disease and age-related macular degeneration.
Commenting, Greg said: "We must ensure that those with both partial and full sight loss have a range of employment opportunities and are not kept waiting for Access to Work support, and that the Blind Person’s Tax Allowance is widened to cover all those certified with sight impairment.
"During the session it was enlightening to see how screen reader technology works, although with average costs for this software coming in at £800 per licence, it remains a huge barrier for many.
"I also chatted with members of the Sight Loss Advice Service team, who operate a dedicated helpline - if you, a friend or family member need help or advice please do call them on 0303 123 9999.
"I will be raising these issues with Ministers in the coming weeks."
