BLIND and partially sighted people in Devon and Cornwall are to be offered computer training, giving them the skills needed to gain employment, access education, and use services to help them live independently.

Workshops will be run by national charity Action for Blind People (Action), funded by a grant from Big Lottery Reaching Communities.

Action’s team of experts will provide advice about access to computers, and other forms of assistive technology to help with daily living, employment and communication.

An Action spokesperson said: "Many people with sight loss have no idea how to gain the skills and access to information they need to prepare them for the workplace or to enable them to access education and community services via computers, leaving them isolated, lacking confidence and self-esteem."

The workshops will include:

• Demonstrations of computers fitted with speech output or magnification to suit an individual’s needs.

• Demonstrations of assistive technology such as CCTVs, scanners, mobile talking phones and other equipment to help people with limited sight.

• Home demonstrations and loan of equipment, subject to availability.

Action’s project manager Mike Thornicroft said: “The most important thing to remember is that if you are visually impaired, even if you are completely blind, it does not stop you from using a computer.

"Even if you’re nervous about technology, the equipment and software we talk about are very easy to use and are designed with simplicity in mind.

“Computers can make a real difference in helping blind and partially sighted people to gain greater independence – providing access to information, employment and education.

"I would encourage anyone with sight loss to get in touch and find out more.”

For further information about Action for Blind People’s services in Devon and Cornwall phone 01392 458060 or e-mail Exeter@actionforblindpeople.org.uk