Introduction

Why are people in the UK losing their sight unnecessarily? Partly due to an ageing population, sight loss is set to double over the next 25 years and the eye health of many people is at risk. Yet 50% of this sight loss is avoidable. The situation for people who do lose their sight or are blind is also far more difficult than it need be.

The UK Vision Strategy, launched last week, was set up to tackle these issues. Its overall aim is to improve eye health and support for people with sight loss across the UK. In this supplement, we look at the reasons why this strategy is necessary and the improvements it intends to make.

First of all, what can individuals can do in order to lessen the likelihood of experiencing sight loss? Eye tests, which can spot a range of eye health problems that start off symptom-free, are key here. Then, what is being done to help people who have lost their sight in terms of emotional, financial, psychological and practical support?

And how can blind and partially sighted people live as full members of society? Legislation to abolish discrimination currently exists, but is it being properly enforced? When it comes to eye health services, "could do better" is currently the most likely verdict. What would best practice look like? And what are the implications of the UK Vision Strategy: how can it be funded, and how can health and social care budgets be joined up?

Finally, how easy is it for blind and partially sighted people to have as interesting a social, sporting and cultural life as anyone else?