One of three visually impaired people are victims of abuse in the UK

MORE than 1.2 million blind and partially sighted people in the UK have experienced physical and/or verbal abuse, according to a survey by Action for Blind People.

In one day nearly 20,000 (4%) blind and partially sighted people were physically abused, compared with less than 1% of sighted people.

In one week almost 180,000 (16%) blind and partially sighted people were verbally abused, compared with only 7% of sighted people.

The survey also revealed a visually impaired person is three times more likely than a sighted person (24% v 8%) not to know where or who to turn to, and almost twice as likely not to be taken seriously (31% v 17%) if they told anyone about their experiences.

One of the people who took part in the survey says the charity is helping rehouse her as a result of abuse and harassment.

She said: "I have had bricks and stones thrown at me, a football kicked at my face, eggs thrown at my window and kids spitting at me.”

The charity's chief executive, Stephen Remington, said: "Unfortunately, visually impaired people can be seen as vulnerable and an easy target for anti-social behaviour.

"The impact this can have on a visually impaired person, who may already feel vulnerable, can be devastating.

"Many people will be as horrified by these results as we are. All of us can play a role in helping to combat such disgusting behaviour."

If you, or anyone you know, are visually impaired and experiencing verbal and/or physical abuse contact Action for Blind People on its Freephone helpline 0800 915 4666 or visit the website: www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk