ECLOs are based within eye departments supporting individuals with visual impairment or impeding sight loss and their families and/or carers. ECLOs provide practical and emotional support to help individuals understand their diagnosis, cope with the challenges sight loss presents and maintain their independence. ECLOs form a bridge between the eye clinic and social care and community services, ensuring those with sight loss can access the services and benefits they require.
ECLOs typically accept referrals from ophthalmologists and low vision clinics. You can ask to be referred to an ECLO if this is not offered initially but you feel that you need additional assistance due to your sight loss.
More information on ECLOs and what they do is provided by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).