RNIB Connect

A new, one-woman show is coming to Brighton in October. As artist Jo Bannon breaks down ‘The Dirty Work'. Hywel Davies has been finding out more.For more information and tickets, visit the website for the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio sit down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.ukYou can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

The Beach Access Project works with partners to enhance and improve the accessibility of the UK's beaches.A pilot scheme at Weymouth Beach has secured funding from Dorset Council and is aiming to make the beach a leading example in accessibility.Amelia spoke to Beach Access Project Founder, Will Bahenna, to learn more...Learn more on the Beach Access Project Website - Beach Access Project – Beach Access ProjectImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

This time for our regular browse through the RNIB online shop with Charlee Jarvis, RNIB Shop's Buying Administrator We are looking at an adjustable LED light and fan plus some great end of year tactile cards for teachers, exams and graduation.You will find out more about the LED light and fan, the range of end of year tactile cards along with many other products by visiting the following link to the RNIB Online Shop - https://shop.rnib.org.uk/connect(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

On Monday 13 July 2026 representatives from across the sight loss sector along with a number of employers and visually impaired people came together at the House of Lords for the launch of the Employment Gap Report:  Out of Sight – Out of Work by Lord Holmes which is making recommendations for Government and the Department of Work and Pensions to bridge the gap in employment for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was at the launch event and caught up with Laura Davies from the British Association for Supported Employment who gave a presentation at the event.(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

On Monday 13 July 2026 representatives from across the sight loss sector along with a number of employers and visually impaired people came together at the House of Lords for the launch of the Employment Gap Report: Out of Sight – Out of Work by Lord Holmes which is making recommendations for Government and the Department of Work and Pensions to bridge the gap in employment for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was at the launch event and caught up with Khadija Raza, RNIB Policy Lead on Accessibility who also gave a presentation at the event.(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

On Monday 13 July 2026 representatives from across the sight loss sector along with a number of employers and visually impaired people came together at the House of Lords for the launch of the Employment Gap Report: Out of Sight – Out of Work by Lord Holmes which is making recommendations for Government and the Department of Work and Pensions to bridge the gap in employment for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was at the launch event and caught up with Josh Feehan, Head of Internships, Thomas Pocklington Trust who gave a presentation at the event.(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

On Monday 13 July 2026 representatives from across the sight loss sector along with a number of employers and visually impaired people came together at the House of Lords for the launch of the Employment Gap Report:  Out of Sight – Out of Work by Lord Holmes which is making recommendations for Government and the Department of Work and Pensions to bridge the gap in employment for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was at the launch event and caught up with Diane Lightfoot from the Business Disability Forum to find out more about the BDF and her thoughts on the report and its recommendations.(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

On Monday 13 July 2026 representatives from across the sight loss sector along with a number of employers and visually impaired people came together at the House of Lords for the launch of the Employment Gap Report: Out of Sight – Out of Work by Lord Holmes which is making recommendations for Government and the Department of Work and Pensions to bridge the gap in employment for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was at the launch event and caught up with Lord Chris Homes of Richmond MBE to find out more about the findings and recommendations of the report and what can be done to bridge that employment gap for blind and partially sighted people.(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.This week Simon talks about new Trustees for the RNIB board and audio described sport on tv.]=If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.ukYou can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Hubert talks to RNIB's Dan Fisher after the concert to get his thoughts on a great event, the key takeaways, and the important part the Elizabeth Eagle Bott Memorial Fund plays in supporting blind and partially sighted musicians. 

Following the concert, Hubert managed to catch up with Jay Pocknell from Sound Without Sight, which has been made possible because of the Elizabeth Eagle Bott Memorial Fund. They discuss thoughts on the concert, and all about Sound Without Sight. 

In this episode Hubert finds out about how Gareth Churchill got into music, and also a bit about a new instrument Gareth was going to use for his performance. 

Before James Risden took to the stage to perform and help cohost the event, Hubert grabbed a chat with him to talk about his music journey. 

In this episode Hubert talks to Lloyd Coleman before he takes to the stage. They discuss his start to music, how the Elizabeth Eagle Bott Memorial Fund has helped him, his future plans, and what advice he'd share with future musicians. 

In this podcast, Hubert chats to Joanne before her performance about her artist journey, the impact the fund had on her career, and her future plans. 

The long awaited, interim report on welfare in the UK has been released. Allan Russell spoke to RNIB's Roisin Jacklin for the organisation's response.Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

In this podcast, Hubert talks to Zachary Smith before his performance on the night about his music journey, and how important the Elizabeth Eagle Bott Memorial Fund was to help him along the way. 

Before the concert got started, Hubert got to speak to some of the artists performing on the night. In this podcast he chats to Charlotte Hardwick. 

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell talks with Anne Hornsby from MindsEye Description to look at some forthcoming events with Audio Description.AD makes television, movies, galleries  and other arts events more inclusive, accessible and enjoyable for blind and partially sighted people.This month they're looking at a, huge, exhibition, a decadent dance favourite and a show about that dream of fame and fortune.If you'd like more information on audio described events, go to www.mindseyedescription.co.uk#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters, A Solid Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath

There are 12 AD performances at this year's Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) across opera, theatre, dance and a theatrical concert. Amelia spoke to Access Manager Callum Madge to learn more about the highlights and access at the EIF.Learn more about the AD performances on the EIF website - Accessible performances | Edinburgh International FestivalImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

The ‘Sight Village Central' exhibition returned to Birmingham this week. Our ‘Tech Talk' team were on hand to find out about some of the latest assistive technology on offer. The ‘WeWalk' smart cane was at one of the stands, where Callum spoke to the developers.

The ‘Sight Village Central' exhibition returned to Birmingham this week. Our ‘Tech Talk' team were on hand to find out about some of the latest assistive technology on offer. Callum Stoneman spoke to the team at ‘Hable' about a new, innovative, low-tech solution.

The ‘Sight Village Central' exhibition returned to Birmingham this week. Our ‘Tech Talk' team were on hand to find out about some of the latest assistive technology on offer. Callum Stoneman got the lowdown on some of the latest multi-line braille devices on the market.

The ‘Sight Village Central' exhibition returned to Birmingham this week. Our ‘Tech Talk' team were on hand to find out about some of the latest assistive technology on offer. Callum Stoneman spoke to Ravencourt Living at the event.

The ‘Sight Village Central' exhibition returned to Birmingham this week. Our ‘Tech Talk' team were on hand to find out about some of the latest assistive technology on offer. Callum Stoneman heard about the wide range of products on offer from Sight and Sound Technology.

The ‘Sight Village Central' exhibition returned to Birmingham this week. Our ‘Tech Talk' team were on hand to find out about some of the latest assistive technology on offer. Callum Stoneman caught up with the Team at Bristol Braille Technology. 

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.This week Simon talks about creating RNIB's new Purpose and working with BT on an important change for everyone with a landline telephone.If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.ukYou can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB's CEO Simon Antrobus, Smiling, Wearing A Black Jacket With A White Shirt

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.This week we have iconic characters, razor-sharp wit and killer songs as the current tour of Mean Girls The Musical visited the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Sue Reading. About ‘Mean Girls The Musical'Direct from the West End, Mean Girls is the smash-hit musical comedy from an award-winning creative team including Tina Fey (30 Rock, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Saturday Night Live).Meet The Plastics – Regina, Gretchen and Karen. They rule North Shore High and will burn anyone who gets in their way. Home-schooled Cady Heron may think she knows a thing or two about survival of the fittest thanks to her zoologist parents, but high school is a whole new level of savage. When Cady devises a plan to end Regina's reign, she learns the hard way that you can't cross a queen bee without getting stung.Winner of Best New Musical (WhatsOnStage Awards).For more about the current tour of ‘Mean girls The Musical' do visit - https://meangirlsmusical.com(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

This time for our regular browse through the RNIB online shop with Charlee Jarvis, RNIB Shop's Buying Administrator, we are looking at the RealSAM Pocket A17 Lifetime Phone and the Ravencourt Living Talking Easy USB Music and Radio Player which have just been added to the RNIB online shop. You will find out more about the RealSAM Pocket A17 Lifetime Phone, the Ravencourt Living Talking Easy USB Music and radio Player along with many other products in the RNIB online shop by visiting - https://shop.rnib.org.uk/connect(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Join Jonathan in the high apline resort town of St. Moritz in Switzerland.Listen to Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

The Barbican Centre's new immersive exhibition ‘in Other Worlds' invites visitors to step into the future as Liam Young's imaginary worlds take over various locations at the Barbican inviting us to imagine the future of humanity and the challenges and adventures to come. This is the first major UK solo exhibition of the filmmaker and speculative architect Liam Young who operates in the spaces between design, fiction and futures. The works in the exhibition will immerse us in the consequences and opportunities of the decisions we make today. It is about stepping away from dystopia, asking: what if the future could actually be... hopeful?RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Luke Kemp, Head of Creative Programming for Barbican Immersive to find out more about the ‘In Other Worlds' exhibition and the audio described tour on Thursday 23 July 2026 at 10am lead by Marcus Dickey Horley who will describe some of the key works that feature in the exhibition.To find out more about the audio described tour of the “in Other Worlds' exhibition and to book your place do visit - https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2026/event/in-other-worlds-audio-described-led-tour(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Based in Devon and fancy an adventure? Devon In Sight are hosting their own one-day version of the hit competition.Amelia spoke to Sarah Small, Head Office and Marketing Manager, and Keith Brokenshire, Access to Work – Access Assistant, to learn more.Learn more on the Devon in Sight website - Race Across Devon - Devon in SightImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Summer is in full swing in this months Almanac, Amelia is here to share how July got it's name and some of the birds you can listen out for this month.Learn more on the RSPB website - The year in nature: JulyImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Extant the UK's leading professional performing arts company of blind and visually impaired artists is continuing to lead the conversation around accessibility in the arts, returning to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe this summer in partnership with Underbelly as principal venue partner which will include three enhance shows alongside a new visually impaired-led showcase on 18 August 2026 spanning theatre, dance and comedy .RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Dr Maria Oshodi, Artistic Director and CEO of Extant, for a look back on access at the Edinburgh Festival fringe from taking the ‘Effing and Blinding' Cabaret too the Fringe in 2007, celebrating Extant's 25 anniversary in 2022 by helping Tom Skelton and Amy Bethan Evans to take their shows to the Festival Fringe and following on from the great success of their 2025 programme a look forward to this year's programme including the three enhance shows, the showcase on 18 August at Underbelly and much more besides. To find out more about Extant and their programme of performances and events for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2026 do visit their website - https://extant.org.uk(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

We find out how both bespoke audio description and sound scapes can create a multi-sensory way into works of art for blind and partially sighted people as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey chats with Glenn Harvey, Sound Designer who is also the Founder and creator of the ‘This Sound is Purple' exhibition that was on at the SQFT Space Gallery in Marylebone, London.Glenn explains to Toby about how the idea for the exhibition came about blending soundscapes and audio description together to bring works of art to life for blind and partially sighted people. The role many visually impaired people played with helping Glenn with the set up of the exhibition as well as reflecting on the comments and feedback he received from visually impaired visitors to the exhibition.  Glenn also shares his thoughts on how the technique of using both soundscapes and audio description could work in other galleries and museums to make their collections more accessible to blind and partially sighted people. The interview included part of the descriptive sound scape for ‘Last I heard' and ‘Dawn Chorus' by Bianca Raffaella. For more about ‘This Sound is Purple' do visit - https://thissoundispurple.com(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Giants, monsters and dragons come to life as Amelia explores RNIB Talking book titles on UK Myths and legends.Find 'Strong Female Character' by Fern Brady, 'Mabinogi: lost legends and dark magic : a BBC Radio full-cast fantasy adventure' and 'The Loch Story' by Nicholas Witchell in the RNIB Talking Books Library.Learn more on the RNIIB Website - Talking books service I Books in accessible formats | RNIBImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.This week Simon talks about networking and a nod to some accessibility work in Northern Ireland.If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.ukYou can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.#RNIBConnectImage shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell is joined by some of the RNIB Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they're working on.This month's topics include a UK Parliamentary event and more discussions around driverless taxis.If you'd like more information on campaigns or want to get involved , email campaigns@rnib.org.ukYou can visit rnib.org.uk/newsor call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999Follow on your socials by searching for RNIB Campaigns#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters, A Solid Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath

Join Jonathan as an amazing feat of engineering takes his train up into the swiss alps.Listen to Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

‘The Coming of Age' at The Wellcome Collection explores experiences and perceptions of ageing and asks how societies can adapt for us all to age better.They are hosting Lights Up and Audio Described Tours of the exhibition, have large print guides and a digital higlights tour available online.Amelia speaks to Jake Blackavar and Anja Richardson from The Wellcome Collection about the exhibition themes, some stand out pieces and access.Learn more about the exhibition and access on the Wellcome Collection website - The Coming of Age | Wellcome Collection

On Monday 29 June 2026 (and on Sunday 5 July at 1pm) Ken Reid will be marking the 100th episode of The Mix Tape show here on RNIB Connect Radio.  Our Toby Davey recently caught up with Ken to find out what the show is all about, some of the themes that have featured on the show so far, what it has been like for Ken presenting the show and working with Barry Snell on putting the show together each week and maybe a hint of the theme for the 100th episode of the Mix Tape.You can catch the Mix Tape show here on RNIB Connect Radio Mondays at 8pm and on Sundays at 1pm or catch the latest episode online - https://www.rnib.org.uk/connect-radio/rnib-connect-radio-shows/mix-tape/ Image shows Ken inside the radio studio smiling for a photo. He has big studio headphones on his head and an even bigger smile on his face. He's wearing a light green button down shirt.

There's an exciting opportunity to join the team behind the UK's largest producer of official statistics. Hywel Davies has been finding out about a new work placement scheme with The Office for National Statistics.

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell is joined by some of RNIB Northern Ireland's Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they're working on.This month's topics include work on accessible voting and the charity Manifesto for next year's elections and a transport hub accessibility launch.If you'd like to find out more, or get involved in campaigning, email campaignsni@rnib.org.uk#RNIBConnectImage shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

Each month RNIB Connect Radio speaks to the Policy and Campaigns Team from RNIB Cymru. This month, we hear about the letter RNIB Cymru has sent to the new Cabinet Minister for Health in Wales and the ‘Pathways in Practice' sessions that are taking place all over the country.For more information on the work of RNIB Cymru's Policy and Campaigns Team, visit the website - Policy - Wales - RNIB Cymru campaigns I RNIB | RNIB