Guide Dogs Children and Young People Services (Northern Ireland)

Our experts can help you to live actively, independently and well with sight loss. Whether you’re asking for yourself, a member of your family, or your child, speak to someone from our friendly team today for more information.

Technology grants and sensory toys

For children with sight loss, technology and sensory play is vital. Our expert team can provide personalised advice to help you choose the right technology or sensory toys for your child’s age and stage. We can offer grants to help buy the specialist technology or sensory equipment your child needs. We also have a range of sensory packages with toys carefully selected by our experts for different age ranges.

My Life Skills

We’re here to help your child learn invaluable practical skills for life. From supporting physical development and learning in the early years, to navigating streets safely, preparing food, handling money, using technology and managing their appearance they grow older.

My Time to Play

My Time to Play helps children aged 0-4 with a vision impairment develop through play and provides parents with the opportunity to network, share experiences and pick up skills and knowledge to support their child’s development with confidence.

CustomEyes Books

CustomEyes Books are for everyone aged 0-25 with a vision impairment, or dyslexia. Whatever reading format your child needs, we’ll tailor their books to meet their individual requirements; font type and size, line spacing, paper colour and more. What’s more, if the book they want isn’t already on our catalogue of over 4,200 titles, we’ll do our best to add it. All books are available at the recommended retail price, regardless of format.

Family Events

Guide Dogs family events are a great day out where your family can relax and have fun together – and meet other families with similar stories. They allow children with a vision impairment to build confidence and make lifelong friends.

Buddy Dogs

Our buddy dogs bring a new friend into the lives of children with sight loss. By helping to develop their self-confidence, improve relationships and build a greater sense of trust, these dogs can have a hugely positive effect on your child’s wellbeing – and your family, too.