NORTH Durham MP Kevan Jones has pledged his support to the Guide Dogs' appeal, Rethink Rehab.

Mr Jones recently met with guide dog owner and campaigner Dave Kent, with his guide dog, Reuben, at the Houses of Parliament, who informed him of the social exclusion facing many visually impaired constituents.

As part of the campaign, politicians throughout the UK have been sent a jigsaw puzzle postcard.

It has a piece missing, symbolising the current lack of rehabilitation provision for blind and partially-sighted people.

Mr Jones said: "Many people with sight loss are forced to stay in their homes, unable to go anywhere without a guide, leading to exclusion from work and social life.

"I'm keen to support Guide Dogs' Rethink Rehab campaign, as it aims to raise awareness of this injustice, and encourage the Government to provide increased investment in rehabilitation services."

David Amess MP's parliamentary motion, backing Rethink Rehab, is supported by 180 MPs.

Tom Pey, Guide Dogs' director of policy and development, said: "Across the UK, many people with sight loss are unable to do everyday things, such as cooking for their family, going to the shops, or to work - all because they haven't been given appropriate training.

"We need the help of guide dog owners and other blind and partially-sighted people to make ministers sit up and take notice of our plight."