A certificate of vision impairment (CVI) allows holders to more easily access services and support for individuals who are severely sight impaired – this was previously referred to as blind – or sight impaired, which is sometimes referred to as partially sighted. In Northern Ireland, the certificate goes by the name A655.

However, Paul is not eligible. While his monocular vision – for he only has sight in one eye – means that he considers himself impaired, his good eye largely compensates for the loss of sight in the other, and means he falls outside the criteria for a CVI. Other situations in which a CVI is not issued include someone with very poor vision that can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, or if the patient is receiving treatment which an ophthalmologist believes is likely to improve their eyesight. For a CVI to be issued, there must be permanent changes to the vision in both eyes.

Nonetheless, Paul may still be able to access help by contacting his local social services department and asking for a care needs assessment, and by getting in touch with local sight loss charities and support groups.