Mark has lived with a visual impairment since birth, navigating the world with determination and independence. However, in 2025, his life changed dramatically when he was hit by a car that he was unable to see approaching. The accident left him with significant injuries and marked the beginning of an incredibly difficult period.

 

In the months that followed, Mark faced not only physical recovery but also major upheaval in his personal life. He experienced mental health challenges, lost his job, and, due to the extent of his injuries, he lost his home and had to move into temporary accommodation while rebuilding his life.

 

Throughout this difficult period, Berkshire Vision Sight Loss Support Officer Cara was there to support Mark. While he was living in temporary accommodation, she worked closely with him to overcome practical challenges, helping him access specialist equipment, advice and support to maintain his independence during an uncertain and challenging time. Cara also helped him access food parcels and other essential services, ensuring he had the support he needed while he recovered and worked towards moving into permanent accommodation.

 

After many months of upheaval, Mark finally moved into his new flat in April 2026. Cara continued to support him throughout this transition, helping him secure grants for essential household items, including a talking microwave, and ensuring his new home was as accessible as possible. She worked with Mark to improve the lighting throughout the property, helped him register for Priority Services Registers, and supported him in obtaining a blind person’s concession on his TV licence. To help him settle in and live more independently, Cara also provided practical adaptations such as bump-ons and other accessible aids, enabling him to navigate and use household appliances with greater confidence.

 

Alongside practical support, Mark has embraced opportunities to meet with others and develop new skills. In 2025, he attended Berkshire Vision’s Living Well with Sight Loss course, where he found it invaluable to meet others with sight loss. The course introduced him to a range of assistive equipment and gave him the opportunity to learn more about guide dogs and the support available. Inspired by this experience, Mark has now started the process of getting a guide dog, which he hopes will further increase his mobility and independence.

 

Mark has also attended a Berkshire Vision employability workshop and is keen to return to work. As part of his next steps, he plans to work one-to-one with our Employment Officer to explore opportunities and build confidence as he moves towards employment.

 

During today’s visit which was both Sight Loss Support and assistant ROVI visit, Cara checked that all of the lighting installed in Mark’s home was working correctly and discussed further ways to improve safety and independence. Mark explained that he is still occasionally burning himself when making hot drinks, so Cara talked through specialist equipment and kitchen aids that could help make this daily task safer.

Cara also demonstrated a range of contrasting coloured placemats. These can help Mark identify the position of his plate more easily when eating, create better contrast between surfaces and tableware, and help prevent items from moving around on worktops and tables. To further improve visibility around the home, Cara demonstrated additional sensor lighting, making it easier for Mark to move safely through his flat.

 

The visit also included discussions about mobility aids and technology. Cara spoke with Mark about different white cane options, including a no-jab cane that may help reduce the knocks and impacts he currently experiences while travelling. They also discussed innovative technologies such as Meta smart glasses, as well as the progress of his guide dog application.

 

Although the last year has brought immense challenges, Mark’s determination to rebuild his life has never wavered. From recovering after a serious accident to settling into a new home, exploring employment opportunities, and working towards getting a guide dog, he continues to make positive steps forward.

 

Mark’s story shows how ongoing support, practical solutions, and personal resilience can make a real difference.