At Vision Support Barrow and District, we believe that the right technology can make everyday life easier, safer and more enjoyable for people living with sight loss.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore vision support tools or you’re interested in the latest innovations in accessible technology, our knowledgeable and friendly team is here to help. We offer guidance tailored to your unique needs and circumstances, taking the time to understand what matters most to you. From product demonstrations and hands-on support to ongoing advice and training, Vision Support Barrow and District is committed to helping you find the solutions that work best for your lifestyle.
Everyday Technology
Accessible Smartphones & Tablets
Devices with built-in accessibility features such as voice-over screen readers, magnification, and voice commands.
Example: iPhones, iPads, and Android phones.
Smart Speakers & Home Assistants
Control your home, listen to books, check the news, and set reminders – all with your voice.
Example: Amazon Alexa, Google Nest.
Computer Accessibility
Screen-reading software, magnification programs, and speech-to-text tools.
Example: JAWS, NVDA, ZoomText, Windows Narrator, Dolphin.
Specialist Vision Support Tools
Electronic Magnifiers
Portable and desktop magnifiers that enlarge text, photos, and objects.
Video Magnifiers (CCTVs)
Larger desktop units with adjustable magnification, contrast, and colour settings.
Wearable Technology
Headsets and smart glasses designed to help with reading, recognising faces, and navigating.
Example: OrCam, eSight, Meta.
Accessible Apps
Apps that read text aloud, describe surroundings, or help with navigation.
Example: Seeing AI, Be My Eyes, Soundscape.
Currently on Loan from Optelec
Optilec Compact 10 – Now Available for Demonstration
We’re pleased to share that Optilec have kindly loaned us the Compact 10, a text-to-speech magnifier. This fantastic device is now available for demonstration in our centre.
If you’d like to see how the Companion 10 could work for you, you can arrange an appointment or simply pop in to try it out.
Ray-Ban Meta Glasses
Introducing the new Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses — combining iconic design with powerful AI assistance.
Come in and try how they can:
✓ Describe what’s in front of you
✓ Read text and signs aloud
✓ Answer questions using built-in AI
✓ Support greater independence
Join us for a free guided demonstration and explore how smart eyewear could support your daily life.
Book your demo today
[01229 440556]
[Vision Support Centre
67/69 Cavendish Street
Barrow-in-Furness
Cumbria
LA14 1QD
Empowering blind and partly sighted people with NaviLens
We use and support NaviLens.
Many blind and partly sighted people have difficulty using traditional signage and therefore find it a challenge to be autonomous in unfamiliar environments.
Blind and partly sighted users can use NaviLens codes, as they do not need to know precisely where they are placed.
Just scan with your mobile camera and get the necessary information contextualised.
Training & Support
We don’t just provide technology – we help you make the most of it. Our team offers:
- One-to-one training sessions
- Group workshops and demonstrations
- Advice on choosing the right equipment for your needs
- Ongoing support to build confidence and independence
- We also have a Tech group that meets the last Thursday of every month from 10am-12pm.The Tech Group share information and help each other understand and learn about new technology.
