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Jane Austen was a brilliant observer of Georgian Britain – but she couldn't speak for everyone. The author's books depict an evocative slice of early 19th-century life, but many aspects of the Regency era are only hinted at in her novels, as this Long Read written by Lizzie Rogers reveals. Today's feature originally appeared in the Christmas 2025 issue of BBC History Magazine, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Happy Holidays! On RNIB Connect Radio we spoke with young Emmy Anstee to find out how she and her family make the festive period inclusive. 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.
After 7 years at the helm of the UK's leading sight loss charity, Matt Stringer has decided to step down as it's Chief Executive. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sat down with Matt to look at his time with the charity and what the future holds for him, beyond the boardroom. #RNIBConnect Image Show RNIB's CEO Matt Stringer, A Smiling Matt Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket
Matt Stringer is standing down as the CEO of UK sight loss charity RNIB. Before he signed off, he spoke to RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell to look back at the charity's 2025 and take a look ahead to what's in store for 2026. 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 Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image Shows RNIB's Connect Radio Logo, RNIB In Bold Black Letters A Solid Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath
The true identity of the white-bearded, red-robed figure who fills children's stockings at Christmas has long been debated. This Long Read written by Thomas Ruys Smith sizes up the merry contenders. Today's feature originally appeared in the Christmas 2025 issue of BBC History Magazine, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
RNIB Connect Radio caught up with members of RNIB's Campaigns team to hear about some of the most successful work undertaken this year, and a look ahead to what 2026 might hold.
Join Jonathan Abro on his bus trip around the Balkans. The first stop is the capital of Albania, Tirana. Liaten to Jonathan's 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.
Lucinda Rouse and Emily Harle discuss snippets from a recent interview Emily conducted with Matt Stringer, chief executive of the Royal National Institute of Blind People.Matt provides insight into the RNIB's transformation programme, which concluded in April, and shares his lessons learned from a significant restructure.He reflects on the differences between charity leadership and his previous work in corporate retail and gives his reasons for leaving the organisation this month.Tell us what you think of the Third Sector Podcast! Please take five minutes to let us know how we can bring you the most relevant, useful content. To fill in the survey, click here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
RNIB volunteers attended an event by the Big Help Out and The Big Lunch, for their majesties the King and Queen and the President and First Lady of Germany. Jonathan Abro represented the RNIB volunteers and told amelia about his experience. Learn more about The Big Help out here - The Big Help Out | Returning in 2026 – Get Involved Listen to Jonathan Abro's Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break.
In today's Read On, Robert Kirkwood chats to the Map Men, also known as Jay Foreman and Mark Cooper-Jones about their debut book This Way Up - When Maps Go Wrong (and why it matters). In the second part of their chat they discuss accessibility, made up mountains, an audiobook co-incidence and even have a feel of a tactile map from RNIB. Plus we'll find some more festive books in the RNIB Library.
A road experience training track for visually impaired people has opened in Stapleford, which is the first of it's kind in the UK. It features traffic lights, button-operated crossings, bus stops, kerbs, road and pavement markings and has tactile maps provided by RNIB. Amelia spoke to Ryan Vaughan, Economic Development Officer from Broxtowe Borough Council, and Rebecca Morley, a Habilitation Specialist at Guide Dogs, who approached Bthe council about creating the space. Learn more on the Broxtowe Borough Council website - Stapleford to host the UK's first road experience training track for vision impaired people
Henshaws are running a 12 Days Of Giving Appeal to support for the Artmakers at the Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre in Knaresborough. The sessions support visually impaired and disabled adults to express themselves creatively. Amelia learned more from Senior Philanthropy Manager Flora Simpson... Learn more on their website - Craft Activities for Visually Impaired and Disabled Adults - Henshaws 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.
This week, we'll be hearing about plans for RNIB's next Technology Fair in Northern Ireland. Hubert Pawelkiewicz finds out how one listener is using technology to help living with diabetes. Plus, much more besides. 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
Did German U-boats conduct a ‘clean' campaign during the Second World War? Or were they guilty of routinely murdering survivors in the water? In this Long Read, written by Roger Moorhouse, we weigh up the evidence. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the November 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 charity's annual report, sight loss charity meetings and farewell drinks as he approaches the end of his time as CEO. 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 also call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image shows Matt smiling, dressed in a grey suit jacket and light shirt.
Earlier this month, RNIB held their Evening of Festive Music event. A celebration of our amazing supporters and the festive season, the event was held at Westminster Chapel with the acclaimed Get Gospel choir performing well-known festive favourites. RNIB Connect Radio's Hubert was there and spoke to Rob Sears, one of the speakers who shared how RNIB helped to support him through his sight loss journey. Want to experience the event and the music for yourself? Join us on RNIB Connect Radio for a special Evening of Festive Music show. Listen Tuesday 23rd December at 6 pm, or wind down with the beautiful festive choir on Christmas Eve at 11 pm. Image shows Get Gospel choir performing in Westminster Chapel. With the ceiling lit up in soft blues, colourful festive lights strung up and a Christmas tree on stage, the venue looks beautifully festive. A captive audience looks upon the four performers as they sing their hearts out.
Image shows Get Gospel choir performing in Westminster Chapel. With the ceiling lit up in soft blues, colourful festive lights strung up and a Christmas tree on stage, the venue looks beautifully festive. A captive audience looks upon the four performers as they sing their hearts out.In this episode, Hubert catches up with RNIB's Helen Smith, to get a preview of the event, and what we can expect, together with the importance of events like these.
In this podcast Hubert speaks to RNIB CEO Matt Stringer, to get his thoughts on the great event. Image shows Get Gospel choir performing in Westminster Chapel. With the ceiling lit up in soft blues, colourful festive lights strung up and a Christmas tree on stage, the venue looks beautifully festive. A captive audience looks upon the four performers as they sing their hearts out.
In this episode Hubert speaks to RNIB's Incoming CEO Simon Antrobus to get his thoughts on his first evening of festive music. Image shows Get Gospel choir performing in Westminster Chapel. With the ceiling lit up in soft blues, colourful festive lights strung up and a Christmas tree on stage, the venue looks beautifully festive. A captive audience looks upon the four performers as they sing their hearts out.
UK sight loss charity RNIB has just announced changes to its Personal Transcription Service. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to RNIB's Chief Operations Officer Mari Jones for more details. If you'd like more info, go to www.rnib.org.uk or call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999. #RNIBConnect 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.
This week, we'll be hearing about ‘We Assist' the new service from the team behind the WeWalk Smart Cane. RNIB's Sightless Kombat runs down some of the most accessible video games available to play during the festive period. Plus, we'll have a roundup of some of the best seasonal offers from the RNIB Shop. 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
What did medieval physicians prescribe for stomach ache? Could weasels' testicles really help you conceive? In this Long Read. written by James Freeman, we delve into the sources to find eight curious cures from the Middle Ages. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the November 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Sight Loss Information Line is a National Lottery funded project in partnership with Vision Support, Cheshire West & Chester Council, East Cheshire Eye Society, Cheshire East Council and the NHS. It provides information, support and guidance to people with sight loss and recently won the Community Partnership Award sponsored by Specsavers at the Visionary 2025 Awards. Amelia spoke to Vision Support CEO, Lowri Bartrum, and Visionary CEO, Fiona Sandford, to learn more... Learn more about the Sight Loss Information line on the Vision Support website - Sight Loss Information Line - Cheshire, North Wales Learn more about Visionary on their website - Welcome to Visionary - Visionary 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 a meeting of the Vision Partnership, RNIB volunteers meeting the King and Queen and a look back at a festive event in London. 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 Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. Image shows Matt smiling, dressed in a grey suit jacket and light shirt.
Our horror film fans are back with the gothic tale of Frankenstein, written and directed by Guillermo Del Toro. Amelia Hilton and Allan Russell review the latest adaptation. You can watch Frankenstein on Netflix with the AD and find it on Audiovault. 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.
Some exciting assistive technology news! Hubert speaks to Jean Marc from WeWALK, all about the We Assist service which has been worked on with help from the RNIB, and which is now available to beta test for blind and partially sighted people. Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo, RNIB In Bold Black Letters, Below A Solid Pink Line with Connect Radio Underneath
Edinburgh's Lord Provost paid a visit to RNIB Scotland's refurbished office, RNIB's Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to him to get his thoughts on the facilities, the game of showdown and Meeting an awards winning volunteer. Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo, RNIB In Bold Black Letters, Below A Solid Pink Line with Connect Radio Underneath
What is myopia and why are more children experiencing it? Amelia speaks to eye care specialist, Professor Annegret Dahlmann-Noor, about the condition and how it can be spotted and treated. Learn more about Myopia on the Myopia website - Short-sightedness (myopia) - NHS 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.
From infernal black dogs attacking churches to ravening, red-eyed brutes on remote roads, Britain has long been haunted by fearsome canine phantoms. This Long Read, written by Karen R Jones, explores what these stories can tell us about societies past. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the November 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 a meeting at Moorfields Eye Hospital, more audio description talks at the BBC and a look at the recent UK Autumn Budget. 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 Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect
RNIB Scotland has launched a new project, designed to provide more advice, support, events and community connections for blind and partially sighted people in rural and isolated areas. This month, David Hogg spoke to Sarah Richings who lives in Orkney If you live in Scotland, are blind or partially sighted, and would like more info, go to www.rnib.org.uk/scotland 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 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 RNIB's response to the UK Chancellor's Autumn Budget and a look back at a recent Parliamentary event. If you'd like more information on campaigns or want to get involved , email campaigns@rnib.org.uk You can visit rnib.org.uk/news or call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Follow @RNIB_Campaigns on your socials or search for RNIB Campaigns #RNIBConnect Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo, RNIB In Bold Black Letters A Solid Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath
How can tech help with you festive preparations? Amelia spoke to Claire Maxwell from the RNIB Shop to learn about tools to help with cooking and catching up with loved ones. Visit the RNIB Shop here - RNIB Shop 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.
It's the season for festivities, and also a good Christmas sale. In this podcast, Hubert catches up with the RNIB Shop to find out what items are available as part of the seasonal shop sale.
The wrongful conviction for treason of a Jewish army captain in France in the late 19th century exposed antisemitism and virulent nationalism – and also, as this Long Read written by Mike Rapport reveals, sparked a flood of fake news that presaged the worst of the modern media landscape. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the November 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The ‘Tech Talk' team reflect on the recent BBC documentary ‘Chris McCausland: Seeing into the Future'. Asking what impact technology like artificial intelligence and autonomous vehicles will have on blind and partially sighted people in the future and how RNIB can offer support in the present day. For more information, visit the RNIB shop - RNIB Shop
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 charity's Westminster event, taking part in a major piece of work around employment and there's comment on the publication of the latest Covid-19 report. 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 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.
Sight loss charity RNIB has been responding to the latest Covid-19 report, which highlights failings that negatively impacted blind and partially sighted people, by governments around the UK. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke with Sophie Dudgeon, Head of Campaigns and Public Affairs for RNIB, about the main findings. 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.
How can you share your experiences of sight loss in art? How can making help your wellbeing? What are some accessible methods? We've gathered visually impaired artists and makers Alan Mcintyre, Julie Hale, Kellie Dingwall and Sian Healey to share their experiences and tips for getting creative. Learn more about ways to get creative on the RNIB website - Art and crafts for blind and partially sighted people | RNIB | RNIB
RNIB Connect Radio's Robert Kirkwood 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. They head over to the Birmingham Hippodrome as Vidar reviews the audio described production of Moulin Rouge. About ‘Moulin Rouge.' Enter a world of splendour, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur and glory! A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Welcome to Moulin Rouge! The Musical! Baz Luhrmann's revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. A theatrical celebration of truth, beauty, freedom and — above all — love, Moulin Rouge! is more than a musical; it is a state of mind. For more about the show visit: Home - Moulin Rouge! The Musical And for more about access at Birmingham Hippodrome: Access Hub – Birmingham Hippodrome 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.
How can technology, music, vibration and visuals make inclusive and multisensory play? Amelia visited Soundplay projects in Glasgow for a tour of their experiences - Here is Co-Founder Bal Cooke showing her the 'Back To Back' Learn more about Soundplay on their website - Soundplay Projects - Meaningful creative expression and musical experimentation 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.
How can technology, music, vibration and visuals make inclusive and multisensory play? Amelia visited Soundplay projects in Glasgow for a tour of their experiences - Here is Co-Founder Bal Cooke showing her the 'Sub-Bass Soft Space' Learn more about Soundplay on their website - Soundplay Projects - Meaningful creative expression and musical experimentation 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.
Devon In Sight's Children and Young People's Counselling Service won the Customer Excellence Award sponsored by Guide Dogs at the 2025 Visionary Awards. Amelia spoke to Grahame Flynne, Chief Executive Officer, and Louise Millington, Sight Loss Advisor, to hear about their work and the win. Learn more about Devon In Sight on their website - Welcome to Devon in Sight - Devon in Sight or call 01392 876 666 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.
How can technology, music, vibration and visuals make inclusive and multisensory play? Amelia visited Soundplay projects in Glasgow for a tour of their experiences - Here is Co-Founder Bal Cooke showing her their 'Sine Wave' Learn more about Soundplay on their website - Soundplay Projects - Meaningful creative expression and musical experimentation 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.
How can technology, music, vibration and visuals make inclusive and multisensory play? Amelia visited Soundplay projects in Glasgow for a tour of their experiences - Here is Co-Founder Bal Cooke showing her the 'Ambient Arcade'. Learn more about Soundplay on their website - Soundplay Projects - Meaningful creative expression and musical experimentation 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.
Soundplay bring music, visuals, tactile materials and technology together in their inclusive experiences to encourage a sense of play. Amelia visited their offices to speak to co-creator Bal Cooke and get a tour. Learn more about Soundplay on their website - Soundplay Projects - Meaningful creative expression and musical experimentation 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.
At the end of the Parliamentary Reception, Hubert spoke to RNIB's CEO Matt Stringer to get his closing thoughts on the success of the event.
In this episode, Hubert chats to another volunteer who came along to provide his knowledge and experience to the visiting MPs.
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
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