NORTH Durham MP Kevan Jones has praised efforts to help people come to terms with sight loss.

Sunderland Eye Infirmary has an outreach clinic in the former surgery at Sacriston, near Chester-le-Street, which is used by local eye clinic liaison officer (ECLO) Cathie Burke.

She is employed by Action for Blind People, part of the RNIB Group, to give practical and emotional support to people newly diagnosed with an eye condition.

After visiting the clinic, Mr Jones said: "Eye clinic liaison officers provide essential support to people in Durham who have been diagnosed with sight loss and don’t know where to turn."

RNIB regional campaigns officer Lucy Dixon said: "At RNIB we know that sight loss can have a devastating impact on a person's life. Stepping outside the hospital after first being diagnosed can be the start of a long journey.

"Not only are ECLOs vital when it comes to providing emotional support for people at a time which can be extremely daunting, but they can also offer important practical support such as helping people to understand the process of becoming registered for their sight loss and transferring people to the right social services departments."

Ms Burke said: "No-one should face sight loss alone. Providing this service is fundamental for people in Durham and ensures that everyone who is affected by sight loss has the opportunity to gain the support they need in order to lead fulfilled and meaningful lives."