Top 10 Tips to guiding visually impaired people

Although many visually impaired people can and do find their way around on their own, on occasion, some will require assistance. Follow these top ten tips for approaching and guiding blind or partially sighted people.

1. Identify yourself and offer help first
A blind or partially sighted person may well be unaware of you as you approach, so say hello before you touch them in any way. Ask politely if they require assistance.

2. Offer your arm
Offer your arm for the blind or partially sighted person to grip just above the elbow. Keep your guiding arm at your side. Make sure that you are both facing in the same direction and set off. Some visually impaired people prefer to put their hand on the shoulder of the person guiding them.

3. Steps and stairs
As you approach a step or a stair, pause and say 'step up', or 'step down'. When you reach level ground again take a step forwards, then pause to give the person you are guiding time to complete the last step.

4. Single file
In a busy crowd or a confined space, move your arm around to the middle of your back, keeping it straight. The person you are guiding will move in behind you, extending their own arm to allow enough distance to walk comfortably.

5. Parting company
When the journey is over, make sure the blind or partially sighted person knows where they are, the direction in which they are facing and where they should go next.

6. Keep your eyes open
For potential hazards such as parked cars, kerbs, overhanging bushes or rubbish bins.

7. Don’t raise your voice
Loss of sight does not necessarily mean loss of hearing.

8. Crowds and traffic
Take extra care when guiding through crowds or traffic and use pedestrian crossings wherever possible.

9. Highlight mobility aids
Let the person you are guiding know of any possible aid to mobility, such as guide rails, especially on buses or trains.

10. Never distract a working guide dog
Don’t stroke, feed or call it.