The mother thought her life was over after she answered the phone

Almost half (43%) said they would like sighted people to offer assistance at train stations and 39% at bus stops. A third of people said assistance would be welcome when on a pavement with obstacles such as bins, pavement parking or oncoming scooters (30%).

When asked “what are the top things people forget to do when they try to guide you,” forgetting to give verbal directions or introduce themselves came out on top. Almost a third (28%) said people “forget to speak directly to me and not my companion or guide dog”, while almost a quarter (23%) said people “forget to say goodbye “.

The campaign film features actors with sight loss and uses everyday experiences: navigating A-boards on the high street, waiting for a bus, dodging cars parked on pavements, bumping into unexpected bins and trying to find milk at the local shop, to highlight these challenges and encourage people to download the guide.

David Aldwinckle, RNIB’s Director of Insight and Customer Voice, said: “While most people with sight loss, like myself, have found ways to get around as independently as possible, that doesn’t mean help isn’t welcome.

“When someone asks me at the bus stop if I need help, I really appreciate it. Just that small acknowledgment that help could be useful makes me feel like I belong and part of the community. There are times when help is really important.

“When you’re walking through a busy, busy subway station, sometimes you have to guess which way is the right way, which brings up feelings of anxiety. A quick “hello” and the question “do you need a hand?” it means I can ask if I’m on the right track and it makes such a difference.”

For more information about the Be Helpful guide visit: www.rnib.org.uk/behelpfulguide

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