Blind people at risk from overgrown foliage, says group

Engagement manager Samantha Leftwich and her guide dog Lizzie

Blind and partially sighted people are at risk of being injured and have had to walk in the road due to overgrown foliage, a campaign group said.

Sight Loss Councils (SLCs), based in Bedfordshire and Essex, have launched a campaign highlighting the dangers of overhanging branches.

As part of this, guidance was issued over how residents could cut back overgrown plants.

SLC manager Samantha Leftwich said: "Many blind and partially sighted individuals have reported to us that they have been hurt, injured, and had their path blocked by overgrown bushes, overhanging branches and foliage.

"This can reduce people’s confidence to travel independently and safely and discourage people from going out."

She added: "As a guide dog owner, it is often a challenge to navigate when trees. bushes and foliage are overgrown.

"When this impedes on the pavement, I often have to re-route, or I am forced into the middle of the road with my guide dog Lizzie.

"We hope everyone will work with us to raise awareness of this issue and encourage everyone to cut it back."