The impact of COVID-19 on people with a visual impairment in Northern Ireland: a sensory support view

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic brought many challenges for all and especially for people with a visual impairment. As a result, many healthcare services had to close or be reduced, and new rules and regulations were implemented. These rules, regulations and testing procedures were challenging for many people with a visual impairment. Methods: Focus groups were conducted with sensory support workers at a regional sensory meeting in Northern Ireland. A set of semi-structured questions were asked about how services were conducted, the challenges faced by people with a visual impairment and any specific cases which showed its impact. Two researchers transcribed and analysed the focus group data. Results: The analysis resulted in four themes, namely “as a result”; healthcare; rules, regulation and testing; and mental and physical health. Some of the biggest issues mentioned were access to healthcare, COVID testing, online working, online schools, one-way systems, social distancing and the impact on mental and physical health. Conclusions: As expected, COVID-19 impacted people with a visual impairment. This study shows some of the barriers faced by people with a visual impairment, especially with regards to the rules and regulations. People with a visual impairment also found it difficult to access the necessary healthcare and support, or they were too fearful to seek it out. This paper provides an insight into the barriers faced by people with a visual impairment and how we may support them in the future.