The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has said outdated views towards the abilities of blind and partially sighted people plays a factor in people feeling excluded.
A survey conducted by the charity showed 47 per cent of North-East residents believe blind and partially sighted people would struggle to find or hold down a job.
Another 53 per cent of people said they did not think blind and partially sighted would be able to play football and 21 per cent did not think they would be able to read books.