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Which of four main contenders for the English throne in 1066 had the strongest claim? Was it the Anglo-Saxon strongman, the Norman duke, the ‘Thunderbolt of the North' or a callow teenager? This Long Read, written by Caitlin Ellis, sizes up the rivals... HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the October 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Book Week Scotland is an annual celebration of books and reading. This year, it's taking place across Scotland between 17–23 November with a curated programme of exciting events and activities featuring Scotland's authors, poets, playwrights, storytellers and illustrators. As part of the yearly celebrations, Scottish Book Trust released a collection of true stories written by the people of Scotland and focused on the theme of Friendship. With over 70,000 free copies available, the book is also available in audio with the support of RNIB. Joining Paulina Kuchorew on RNIB Connect Radio is Scott Ferguson, one of the authors featured in this year's edition of the book. To find out more about the free Friendship book for this year's Book Week Scotland as well as all the amazing events taking place across Scotland, visit: Book Week Scotland – Events & Resources - Scottish Book Trust Image shows the 'Friendship' book sitting up on a pile of copies of the release. The book is bright red with 'Friendship' written in a white contrasting font. Bellow a yellow scrabble tile grid reads: chum, mate, bestie, pal, and caraid.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke with Dharmesh Patel, CEO of Primary Eyecare Services. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. At the end of the day, David caught up with Matt Stringer again, to get his thoughts on the day. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. Before the official launch of Beyond the Eye, a training course for ophthalmologists, David Hogg spoke to Amanda Hawkins, Dr Tariq Aslam and Dr Mhairi Thurston to get their reflections on the work they'd done to make the course a reality. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was in attendance and spoke with RNIB's Anna Tylor. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was in attendance and spoke to one of the afternoon's speakers, Tim Morgan. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. The event marked the launch of Beyond the Eye, a training course for ophthalmologists. David Hogg spoke to RNIB's Amanda Hawkins to find out more. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke to James Palmer from NHS England. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke to Dr Peter Hamspon. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke with one of the keynote speakers, Dr Gillian Rudduck, about their embrace of new technologies. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. Before the event started, RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg caught up with RNIB CEO Matt Stringer about the day ahead and the work that's been done over the past few years. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.
Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week Matt talks about the recent Eye Care Support Pathway event, there's a look ahead to a Parliamentary reception and a big gathering to discuss employment and the Charlie Mayfield report for the UK Government. If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image Show CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket.
Hair & Care are hosting a Webinar on 18th November on empowerment, inclusive beauty & fashion, and the power of self-care. It will feature their founder Anna Cofone, along with a panel of blind and partially sighted activists, influencers and industry professionals. Amelia spoke to Amie Douglas to learn more... Book your place here - Hair & Care | Webinar 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.
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 the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This time we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis's classic novel ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' as the current tour of the spectacular West End production visited the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Remy Lloyd. About ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis's classic novel, watch ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' come to life in this spectacular production – a delight for all ages. For more about the tour of ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' including dates and times of performances do visit - https://www.lionwitchonstage.com/tour-dates And for more about access at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre do visit - https://www.grandtheatre.co.uk/access/ (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)
RNIB's Technology Fair returns to Northern Ireland in February. Hywel Davies has been hearing about plans for the next event.
Did you know that charity RNIB offers emotional support for blind and partially sighted people through their Sight Loss Counselling team? For International Volunteer Day (5th of December), we spoke about the importance of this support and the difference it can make on someone's life with Paula Bell, Volunteer Counsellor with RNIB. Paula shared her story with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew. To find out about RNIB's counselling service, or about volunteering with RNIB, get in touch with our helpline. Call 0303 123 99 99 or email helpline@rnib.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.
In this podcast, Hubert chats to Lee about his sight loss journey. They also discuss how Lee manages his diabetes with sight loss, and the technology he uses to help him. 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.
World Ballet Day on Wednesday 12 November 2025 is the global celebration of dance where artists and audiences are invited to experience ballet in new transformative ways as access becomes art. The Royal Ballet in London will be streaming a programme of dance which will have at its heart a brand-new six minute work curated and conceived by choreographer and Artistic Director of Fall for Dance North Festival Robert Binet, in collaboration with blind artist and assistant professor of Disability Studies Devon Healey, who's Immersive Descriptive Audio will take people into the inner world of dance through sensation, sound and storytelling. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Devon and Rob to find out more about World Ballet Day 2025 and their collaborative work for the Royal Ballet which will be streamed as part of the celebrations on the day. To find out more and watch Devon and Rob's brand-new six-minute work do visit the following pages of the RBO website - https://www.rbo.org.uk/world-ballet-day-2025 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.
The highly acclaimed Get Gospel Choir will be providing the entertainment at the RNIB Evening of Festive music at Westminster Chapel on Thursday 4 December 2025. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Jules Rendell founder of the get Gospel Choir to find out all about the history of the choir, a flavour of the festive tunes that they will be performing at the RNIB Evening of Festive music at Westminster Chapel on Thursday 4 December 2025 and what the choir get out of performing lots of festive tunes at this time of the year. To find out more about the Get Gospel Choir and to hear examples of their singing do visit - https://www.getgospel.co.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)
This week, we're hearing about the exciting plans to bring autonomous ride-hailing service ‘Waymo' to the UK. Hubert Pawelkiewicz catches up with RNIB's Products For Life Team. Plus, we'll explore Apple's ‘Shared Accessibility Settings' feature for iOS. You can listen to the show live in the UK every Tuesday at 1pm on Freeview Channel 730, online at RNIB Connect Radio | RNIB , or on your smart speaker. You'll hear new episodes of the Tech Talk Podcast every Tuesday afternoon, so make sure you're subscribed to never miss an episode. We'd love to hear your thoughts on accessible technology, drop us an email at techtalk@rnib.org.uk
In the second century BC, Roman troops razed the city of Carthage and obliterated its civilisation. So why, asks this Long Read written by Eve MacDonald, did the victors remain obsessed by their conquered foes for the next 200 years? HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the October 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
There are many fabulous ways you can support a cause that's close to your heart. You could take on a local half marathon, jump out of a plane, or, as in the case of Josephine Boulter, create a nude calendar to challenge the stigma surrounding vision loss and raise important funds for a charity that's close to her heart. She spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew 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.
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 the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we are back at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon again as Vidar reviews Emily Burns' bold and contemporary production of Shakespeare's tale of justice and morality ‘Measure for Measure' with description by Professional Audio Describers Gethyn Edwards and Carolyn Smith. About ‘Measure for Measure' ‘To whom should I complain? Who would believe me?' If you knew you could get away with a crime - would you commit it? Shakespeare's razor-sharp thriller, directed by Emily Burns (Love's Labour's Lost, 2024) is brought up to date in a heart-racing, relevant new version. This Measure for Measure is unmissable theatre with its finger on the pulse of what it means to expose lies, abuse and, ultimately, the truth. For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances do visit - https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access (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 Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week Matt talks about An important government paper on Employment and 2 big events the charity is behind on health and employment, plus a nod to the recent industry wins for RNIB Connect Radio. If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image Show CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket
The University Of Bournemouth are exploring how training blind and partially sighted people in Digital Media can improve their wellbeing and social inclusion. Amelia spoke to Catalin Brylla, Principal Lecturer in Film and Television, to learn more... Learn more about the research here - Blindness and media engagement | Bournemouth University 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.
Glen Turner is a carer for his mum as she ages and her sight deteroirates. He's been sharing the challenges and lessons from his experience on his blog, Well Eye Never, and told Amelia how he's been looking after himself. Find out more about Glen and read his carer's journal here - Well Eye Never – Visually impaired accessibility advocate, culture vulture & London explorer 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.
Today a supercut of interviews with all six Booker shortlisted authors for 2025 with Susan Choi on Flashlight, Kiran Desai on The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny, Katie Kitamura on Audition, Ben Markovits on The Rest of Our Lives, Andrew Miller on The Land in Winter, and David Szalay on Flesh. All books on the shortlist are available both in audio and Braille from RNIB library.
The RNIB elves are working with Santa to get lots of accessible letters out to blind and partially sighted children before Christmas. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell dropped into the Grotto to chat to Titch the Elf, try some quizzing and listen to Santa chatting with a little one… If you know a blind or partially sighted child, who'd love a letter, go to www.rnib.org.uk/santa To complete the form by November 30th. Don't worry if you miss that date, Santa can send a festive email to them, just email santa@rnib.org.uk before December 18th. #RNIBConnect Image Shows Titch The Elf, Titch Is Wearing Her Christmas Dress And Hat, Keeping Warm Standing By The Fire That Has Christmas Stockings Hanging On.
Holly Thomas is a visually impaired Dance Artist, Choreographer and Audio Description Practitioner. ‘Half Light' invites audiences to awaken your senses and tune in to a reality where movement is revealed in sound. Part biographical, part fiction, Half Light draws upon Holly Thomas' lived experience of visual impairment and parenting to unmask a multi-generational story about the courage it takes to send your child into a world that you may not always understand. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Holly to find out more about her background as a Dancer, Choreographer and Audio Description Practitioner plus all about ‘Half Light' too'. Half Light' is on at the Arnolfini in Bristol on Friday 14 November 2025 with performances and touch tours starting at 4pm and more can be found by visiting - https://arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/hollythomashalflight/ To find out more about Holly do visit her website - https://hollythomasdance.co.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)
There are many ways in which you can help the RNIB in making a more inclusive society for blind and partially sighted people and one way is through the regular RNIB Voice of the Customer Focus Group meetings. The most recent Focus Group meeting was all about looking at the experience of volunteering as a blind or partially sighted person. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Charlotte Jones, RNIB Insight Community Manager and Grace Hill an RNIB Volunteer and focus group participant for a bit of an overview of the voice of the Customer Research Programme, and what it is like taking part in one of the focus group meetings. (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)
Which Geese will be taking to the sky this month? Why do we celebrate fireworks night? Amelia shares some of the birds, celebrations and folklore you can enjoy this November. Learn more about the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - The year in nature 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.
Did James I 'steal' Elizabeth I's crown? This Long Read, written by Tracy Borman, considers evidence that the transition from Tudor to Stuart dynasties may not have been quite as seamless as we've been led to believe. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the October 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
For the first time this year the charity Cards for Good Causes who through their website and pop-up shops sell a range of cards and gifts supporting many charities will be also selling in a number of their shops Braille Christmas cards in aid of the RNIB with an in-store facility to be able to print personalised Braille messages in the cards too. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Christine Ansell, chief Executive of Cards for Good Causes to give some background to the history of the charity and why they decided to offer Braille cards with the personalised in-store Braille message writing facility too. To find out more about cards for Good Causes and the locations of their pop-up shops do visit - https://cardsforcharity.co.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)
Simon Startin is a Visually impaired Actor, Playwright, Director and Activist who has been playing The Blind Profit Tireseus in a thrilling new version of Euripides' timeless tragedy Bacchae at the National Theatre. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Simon during the run of Bacchae at the National Theatre and not long after attending one of the audio described performances of the production to firstly find out why Simon wanted to study theatre at the Royal Welsh Academy of Music and Drama, how he found it during the rehearsal process and preparing to play Tireseus on the National Theatre's Olivier stage, what help he needs when performing as a visually impaired actor and whether it was the right casting for him to be playing the blind profit in Bacchae. To find out more about access at the national Theatre including details of audio described performances of NT productions do visit - https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/your-visit/access/ (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)
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 the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we have a new version of Edmond Rostand's ‘Cyrano de Bergerac' at the Royal Shakespeare Company's Swan Theatre, which Vidar says is one of the best productions he has seen in Stratford-upon-Avon with description by Professional Audio Describers Emily Magdij and Annette Stocken. About ‘Cyrano de Bergerac' ‘No master to serve, no leash to bear. I walk as I please, and I speak as I dare.' Poet, soldier and philosopher. Cyrano de Bergerac burns with brilliance. He's fiercely funny and intensely romantic – but behind the veil of wit is one large problem: his nose. Haunted by doubts and too proud to beg, he watches from the shadows as Roxane – bold, beautiful and seemingly unreachable – falls for another man, Christian. But this handsome, tongue-tied young suitor knows his only hope of charming Roxane is to seduce her with words. And only one person can help… Olivier Award-winning actor Adrian Lester (Riviera, Hustle, National Theatre Othello and Henry V) is Cyrano. Director Simon Evans (Staged, The Dazzle, A Day in the Death of Joe Egg) co-adapts with Debris Stevenson (Poet in Da Corner, My Brother's a Genius), bringing new life to this thrilling, lyrical tale of love and lies, longing and disguise. For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances do visit - https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access (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)
UK sight loss charity RNIB is calling for improved access to Vision rehabilitation Services to help those losing their sight. RNIBs Allan Russel spoke to Alexis Horam to find out why the services are so vital and what are the problems faced by staff. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight 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.
In this podcast, Hubert chats to Claire Maxwell from our very own shop, as she gives us the lowdown of what's available for customers who would like to start getting ready for Christmas early. 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.
New research published by RNIB shows delays to support following a sight loss diagnosis are leaving blind and partially sighted people at risk. Titled Life on Pause, the report shows a fifth of local authorities in England left people waiting for more than a year for a vision rehabilitation assessment and subsequent support. Whilst 85 per cent of local authorities missed the RNIB recommended timeframe to offer assessments. This means thousands of people with sight loss remain Out of Sight and unable to access the support they need to live life to the full. Joining us now to share her experience of accessing rehabilitation services and the importance of being able to access them early on is Bhavini Makwana. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight 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.
The RNIB's long term strategy involves making substantial financial savings. One of the services proposed for cuts was the transcription on request of braille books and other documents. Following a high level of complaints about this, a year's extension of the service has been agreed whilst a consultation exercise takes place. However, concerns remain, including from visually impaired people who use the service to obtain braille music scores. We examine the issue in more detail with the help of Connor Scott-Gardner, James Risdon and Stefan Andrusyschyn. Presenter: Peter White Producer: Fern Lulham Production Coordinator: Kim AgostinoWebsite image description: Peter White sits smiling in the centre of the image, wearing a dark green jumper. Above Peter's head is the BBC logo (three individual white squares house each of the three letters). Bottom centre and overlaying the image are the words "In Touch"; and the Radio 4 logo (the word Radio in a bold white font, with the number 4 inside a white circle). The background is a bright mid-blue with two rectangles angled diagonally to the right. Both are behind Peter, one of a darker blue and the other is a lighter blue.'
In the 12th century, a sect of killers spread fear across the Middle East, executing a series of high-profile political murders. This Long Read, written by Steve Tibble, introduces the original Assassins. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the October 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week Matt talks about the launch of the Out Of Sight campaign and petition, there's a look ahead to some big events in November and a Christmas nod to the RNIB shop. If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image shows CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt is wearing glasses and a grey jacket.
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 the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we have the sensational story of the Mitford sister's with 'The Party Girls' at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith. About ‘The Party Girls' The glamorous Mitford girls cut a glorious swathe through pre-war high society, amidst the glittering world of debutantes and dukes. But as Fascism rises and political storm clouds crackle over carefree country houses, the bonds of sisterhood are threatened by new and treacherous desires. Amy Rosenthal's compelling, touching and witty new play explores the true story of a family riven by political extremism, seen through the eyes of Jessica (Decca) Mitford as she battles to stay true to her beliefs. Nancy aspires to be a celebrated novelist, Diana and Unity fall for the dangerous, charismatic leaders of the Far Right in Britain and Germany, and Debo sets her cap at a Duke. Meanwhile Decca crosses continents in her own passionate pursuit of love – but can she ever escape her sisters and her past? To find out more about access at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre do visit - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility/ (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)
RNIB are launching a new phase of their Out of Sight Campaign and you can get involved. Amelia spoke to Vivienne Francis, RNIB Chief Strategy And Public Affairs Officer, to learn more. To sign the petition visit: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight 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)
With the publication of the RNIB Life on Pause report stating that thousands of people with sight loss remain Out of Sight, with challenges in accessing local vision rehabilitation services leaving them without the support that they need to live life to the full. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Chloe Hesse about not only coming to terms with her sight loss but also her journey with local vision rehabilitation To find out more about the Life on Pause report and how you can get involved in the Out of Sight campaign and sign the petition calling on the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, to make sure blind and partially sighted people get the support they need, when they need it do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/support-a-campaign/out-of-sight/ (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)
UK sight loss charity RNIB, has launched the first round of its job placements for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Heather Barbara, RNIB Employment Advisor, to find out more. If you'd like more info on the job placements, go to www.rnib.org.uk/jobs You can also call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999 #RNIBConnect Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo
A pivotal European clinical trial of a new electronic eye implant has seen remarkable results. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed 84% of participants were able to read letters, numbers and words using prosthetic vision through an eye that had previously lost its sight due to the untreatable progressive eye condition, geographic atrophy with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Mahi Muqit, senior vitreoretinal consultant at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London who lead the UK arm of the trial to explain more about the results of the study and the technology used too. There is more information about this new pioneering eye device on the following pages of the Moorfields Eye Hospital website which also includes a link to register on the Moorfields research portal, ROAM which will give you access to current and future research - https://www.moorfields.nhs.uk/about-us/news-and-blogs/news/pioneering-eye-device-restores-reading-vision-to-blind-eyes (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)
There have long been whispers of a romance between Queen Victoria and her Scottish servant John Brown, but nothing concrete to support them. This Long Read – written by historian Dr Fern Riddell, author of an explosive new book on the subject – reveals how she turned sleuth to track down evidence of their secret passion. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the September 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode, Scott Davert gives us an in-depth demonstration of Braille Access. New in iOS 26, Braille Access aims to offer an experience similar to dedicated braille note takers.TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers' names, voices, or content.An AppleVis Orriginal Thanks for checking out the AppleViz podcast. I'm Scott Davert, and on this podcast, I'm going to cover Braille Access, a brand new set of features available in iOS 26.My apologies, by the way, for getting this out kind of late. I know it's been pretty much a month at this point, but I had a lot of things going on, including being sick twice last month. And the bulk of everything I'm going to talk about here today is available in the article I published on September 13th.So if you're someone who prefers blog posts to podcasts, that is also available to you. What is Braille Access? Braille Access provides access to Braille. That's the podcast. Hope you enjoyed. This podcast was brought to you by the community at AppleBiz.com. No, I'm kidding. Braille Access isA set of tools, I would call them. I don't know if we're supposed to refer to Braille access as a feature and these other things as sub-features or as an app. I don't know. Whatever it is, it has a lot to offer. We have a few functions in it that... We're already available on previous versions of iOS that have been put into this suite of applications or tools, we'll call them. And you have some newcomers. Like anything that is brand new, it does suffer with some challenges, but we'll talk about that as we go along.The idea behind this is to essentially address the needs of Braille users. For a long time, we've, of course, been able to connect Bluetooth displays to iOS devices, but we haven't had any real major features built in specifically for Braille display users, and that changes with iOS 26.If you're familiar with the old note takers like the Braille Lite, the Braille and Speak, the BrailleNote, the BrailleNote Empower, the BrailleNote Apex,The Braille Sense 6 has some of this as well. It's probably the most modern example of this type of environment. But this one brings a lot of these features to your iOS and iPadOS devices. So, for example, you have the ability to take notes. That one's called Braille Notes.I don't know how humanware feels about that, but that's what it's called. And then you have BRF files. So if you have files that you have created on notetakers or things that you have downloaded from Bookshare, NLS barred,CELA, I know, has BRF content, RNIB does, and so on and so forth. You'll be able to read. You can also create and edit BRF documents through Braille access. There's also a calculator application that allows you to use Nemeth code, which is still, I think, what a lot of schools are using here in the States, as well as UEB math.which is starting to spread across the U.S., but who knows how that one will come out. We also have live captions. I can't really demonstrate those. It's kind of difficult to do in a podcast, but I'll definitely talk about that and how they are used and some of the limitations. And we also have the ability to tell the time in…
The rise of Æthelstan was as important a moment in English history as 1066 and Magna Carta. On the 1,100th anniversary of his coronation, this Long Read, written by David Woodman, salutes a king who forged a nation. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the September 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices