Banking
All major banks will provide statements and leaflets in braille or large print. Also large print chequebooks and signature guides can be supplied. It is also possible to arrange for your statement to be read to you over the telephone. Many banks now offer telephone banking and using standing order or direct debit arrangements can help to cut down on paperwork with bills. You should discuss these issues with your own bank.
Telephones
Visually impaired people experiencing difficulty in using their telephone may receive assistance from their telephone supplier who may provide bills in braille, large print or a talking telephone bills service. British Telecom (BT) produces "BT products and services: A guide for older or disabled people". This is available in the Library Visual Impairment Units or at Bury society for the blind, or, for a free copy and more information contact British Telecom on telephone 150 or 0800 919 591. BT also offers a free directory enquiry service. Phone 195 for details.
Gas & electricity
Many gas and electricity companies provide information in large print and in Braille or a talking bill service. Some gas companies can provide braille dials for cookers and fires. contact your local supplier for more information.
Protected services scheme
Gas, electricity, BT and the local authority operate a password scheme to protect vulnerable customers who are unable to see identify cards. For further information contact the relevant local offices.
Shopping
Shopmobility is a well established voluntary organisation which provides assistance for people shopping in Bury town centre. They provide volunteers to accompany individuals and can also provide wheelchairs. For details contact:
Shopmobility,
34 Minden Parade,
Bury, BL9 0QG.
Telephone 0161 764 9966.
Most shops will happily provide extra assistance to visually impaired customers. If visiting an unfamiliar supermarket or larger store it is useful to telephone in advance to give the time of your arrival so that a member of staff can be waiting for you.
If getting to the shops is difficult, you can order from a catalogue from Iceland and they will deliver to your home. A small delivery charge is made. Contact Iceland on 0800 328 0800 (Freephone).
(Asda are hoping to extend their 'At Home' service to this area in the near future).
Wiltshire farm foods deliver ready made frozen meals to your home which can be kept in the freezer and cooked as required. Telephone 01706 221759.
As technology advances, buying goods on the Internet is becoming more popular. The following high street stores offer on-line shopping and also provide magazines, catalogues etc. on audio tape. Contact your local store for details.
Marks and Spencer web site.
Tesco web site.
Boots web site.
