Burt backs Guide Dogs campaign

11.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 26th Oct 2005

Blind and partially sighted Solihull residents have written to their MP, Lorely Burt asking for her support in a national campaign backed by Guide Dogs, RNIB and Action for Blind People.

'Re-think Rehab' aims to highlight the major shortage of rehabilitation workers suitably qualified to help blind and visually impaired people to become more self sufficient in their lives.

"The result of these staffing shortages is that many blind and partially sighted people are forced to stay in their homes, unable to go anywhere without a guide, leading to exclusion from work, social and civil life, said Lorely Burt, Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament for Solihull.

"I will be backing moves in Parliament to persuade the Government of the need for greater investment in rehabilitation services in the future," added Mrs Burt.