Many people in this area supported the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) campaign to allow people who live with severe sight disabilities to claim the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

The government is now in the process of making its decision about whether or not to comply with these important changes.

This decision could go either way; most importantly these changes can be made and there is strong support from department of Work and Pensions ministers. However, at present we are all too well aware the government is under significant financial pressures.

While the government is considering their decision, we need to ensure that they are reminded just how strongly people in the East Yorkshire area feel towards this issue. It is absolutely vital. We cannot allow government to delay anymore on making a decision or can we let them feel that the issue will just disappear.

We must keep on protesting until they actually make their decision, until they put right this injustice to blind people.

I know that some visually impaired people, who cannot drive and in some cases find it too difficult to use public transport, are missing vital hospital appointments and even employment opportunities. This is because the benefit they receive does not cover the cost of taxi-cab journeys. On a day-to-day basis, many blind people are unable to get out independently and stops them doing things many people take for granted such as shopping, meeting up with family and friends, joining social clubs.

This has a massive impact on the quality of these people's lives with added 'knock-on' effects such as affecting their self-confidence.
I support the Royal National Institute of the Blind's campaign calling for changes in the present Disability Living Allowance legislation. This is a state benefit that currently allow people with other disabilities who can drive to claim its higher 'mobility' rate component worth £46.75 per week.

People who live with serious sight disabilities are only eligible to claim the lower mobility rate component of just £17.75 per week.
I will be writing to my local MP, Greg Knight, to ask for his support for the many blind people in his constituency who may benefit from these changes. This situation is unacceptable and totally unfair.
If any of your readers would like more information about the campaign they can contact RNIB on 020 7391 2096.
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