Ministry of Social AffairsQuestion Replied
To GeorginaDear Georgina The Gibraltar Health Authority is currently in discussions with the Society for the Visually Impaired on the subject of walking canes, and it appears that things are progressing positively on this front. As soon as a tutor is identified and tuition on the use of the cane is given, the Ministry for Social Affairs has committed itself to providing the white canes for those who require them. Government has also earmarked premises for the Society which are in the process of being refurbished. According to the Society, it is envisaged that the new premises will serve the following functions: 1/ A meeting place with regular opening hours for members to socialise. 2/ A location suitable for visiting and local specialists to be able to instruct and pass on up to date information (I believe this would involve the teaching of Braille) 3/ A workshop where members can develop varied interests and skills. 4/ A base for a “talking books” library. Please note that a “talking books” library already exists in the John Mackintosh Hall. Government does provide specialist services and technological equipment (including Braille, Print and special computers) to children of school age who are visually impaired. The Education Department employs the services of the Education Service for Hearing and Vision in Hull. Every year a peripatetic teacher visits Gibraltar to plan the education programme for the students concerned. A Mobility Officer also visits on a yearly basis to plan the mobility programme. When new technology is introduced, an ICT specialist also visits to support the teachers and classroom aides involved. I hope the above information is of use.
Regards Frances Garro
Gibraltar Local Disability Movement
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