From February, Vision Australia staff will operate a monthly clinic in Kiama, providing people from across the region with convenient access to a range of different support services.

Caroline Yan, Vision Australia Illawarra regional business manager, said the Kiama clinic had been established given the success of similar activities in other regional areas.

“We’ve seen this approach work well in the past and we’re excited we can now do the same in Kiama and we think it’s something that will be popular among the blind and low vision community in the region,” Caroline said.

“For people who are blind or have low vision, travelling to appointments can be difficult sometimes. They may either need to rely on friends or family to get them there or have to use public transport, which can be an issue if they’re not familiar with the route, and other options like taxis can be expensive,” she said.

Open to both new and existing clients, each clinic will be staffed by a Vision Australia orthoptist and an occupational therapist.

“Karen, our orthoptist, will be able to provide people with a vision assessment as well as advice around how lighting and magnification devices can support them,” Caroline said.

“Isaac, our occupational therapist, is available to help people with advice around modifications and pieces of equipment that can support people to remain safe and independent at home.

“Both Karen and Isaac can also refer clients to other service providers, such as our orientation and mobility specialists and assistive technology specialists, as well as provide advice about how people can access funding arrangements like the National Disability Insurance Scheme.”

The Vision Australia Kiama clinic will be held at Eye Store Kiama, 9/143 Terralong Street, Kiama.

To make a booking or find out more about Vision Australia services, call 02 4220 4300 or email wollongong@visionaustralia.org.