The Nystagmus Network is a registered charity in England and Wales supporting people living with nystagmus. Nystagmus is a complex eye condition, characterised by involuntary movements of the eye. The eyes appear to wobble or flicker from side to side, up and down or round and round. Nystagmus causes impaired vision, affecting the ability to focus, speed and depth perception and facial recognition. At least 1 in 1,000 people are born with nystagmus and many more acquire the condition later in life.
The charity was founded in 1984 by Vivien Jones after her son was diagnosed with nystagmus when he was three months old. It has grown exponentially from very humble beginnings to the hi-tech digital online presence of today.
The Nystagmus Network provides support and information, promotes a better understanding of nystagmus through an annual Nystagmus Awareness Day on 20 June and throughout the year and funds research to find effective treatments.
Through its support services, the Nystagmus Network ensures that, following diagnosis, there is somewhere for a family to turn to. We operate a helpline, run monthly online get togethers and provide download resources which contain practical advice as well as educational resources via our website.