Facts and Statistics
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There are approximately 200 Braille users in Northern Ireland.
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Royal National Institute of the Blind estimate there are over 28,000 blind or
partially sighted people in Northern Ireland.
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Only a minority of blind people have a guide dog (there are around 100 working
dogs in Northern Ireland at present).
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Eye accidents at home result in 200 hospital visits a day. Most patients recover
well, but unfortunately some lose their sight permanently. Most of these accidents
are preventable.
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Blind and partially sighted people are just like everyone else, except they can't
see properly. They go to school, college and university; get jobs; bring up families;
watch TV; enjoy holidays; friends and hobbies. For example, blind people may welcome
help to find their way around or to cross a busy street. But don't assume that
help is needed – always ask first.
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