Podcasts about rnib

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 for 2025 This week we have an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France for young Albert's beloved horse Joey as the current tour of the National Theatre's acclaimed production of War Horse visited the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham with description by Professional Audio Describer Theo Hornsby-Walsh. About ‘War Horse' The National Theatre's acclaimed production is now on a major UK & Ireland Tour.  War Horse is an unforgettable theatrical experience which takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of First World War France. Based on the beloved novel by Michael Morpurgo, this powerfully moving and imaginative drama, filled with stirring music and songs, is a show of phenomenal inventiveness. At its heart are astonishing life-sized horses by South Africa's Handspring Puppet Company, who bring breathing, galloping, charging horses to thrilling life on stage. At the outbreak of World War One, Joey, young Albert's beloved horse, is sold to the Cavalry and shipped to France. He's soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey, serving on both sides before finding himself alone in No Man's Land. Albert, who remained on his parents' Devon farm, cannot forget Joey. Though still not old enough to enlist, he embarks on a treacherous mission to find Joey and bring him home. For more about the current UK and Ireland tour of ‘War Horse' including details of dates and times of performances near you do visit the production website - https://www.warhorseonstage.com (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)

HMRC are warning people to be vigilant against scammers at this time of year, as bogus messages are being sent to thousands of people across the UK about winter fuel payments.  Hywel Davies has been finding out how you can stay safe online. 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.

Our David Hogg finds about a way for blind and partially sighted people to connect with others in their local area.

Why is braille still undervalued in 2025? In this powerful conversation, Steven Scott welcomes accessibility leader Dave Williams to discuss his journey from RNIB to DOT, a company creating a new type of braille tech, and the cultural barriers still holding blind people back. From leadership gaps to breakthrough devices like the Dot Pad X, this episode offers deep insights into blind empowerment, inclusive design, and the state of accessible technology today.Steven Scott is joined by longtime accessibility advocate and technologist Dave Williams for an in-depth discussion on braille literacy, blind leadership, and new innovations in tactile technology. Dave shares why he left RNIB after six years to focus on braille full-time with DOT, the South Korean company behind the Dot Pad—one of the most advanced multiline braille and tactile graphics displays available.The episode dives deep into systemic issues affecting blind people, from infantilization to the lack of blind people in leadership roles. Dave argues that lived experience must be more than a buzzword—it should mean direct, daily experience of blindness. Together, they reflect on challenges within the charity sector, mentorship, and representation, and why blind people must be empowered to speak for themselves.Later, the two geek out one the upcoming Dot Pad X, comparing it to Humanware's Monarch and evaluating trade-offs in price, compatibility, and design philosophy. Dave also previews his new podcast, Raising the Dots, focused on braille and tactile literacy.Chapters00:00 - Introduction01:06 - Dave Williams from Dot joins the show!01:50 - Dave talks about leaving RNIB05:19 - Dave's thoughts on RNIB's position on braille11:22 - Dave and Steven discuss the role of blind leadership18:45 - The value of the blind community25:29 - The challenge of getting stuck in our own little boxes30:00 - Get in touch with the Double Tappers30:23 - Dave talks about previously taking over RNIB Tech Talk41:37 - Dave talks about the Dot Pad X Find Double Tap online: YouTube, Double Tap Website---Follow on:YouTube: https://www.doubletaponair.com/youtubeX (formerly Twitter): https://www.doubletaponair.com/xInstagram: https://www.doubletaponair.com/instagramTikTok: https://www.doubletaponair.com/tiktokThreads: https://www.doubletaponair.com/threadsFacebook: https://www.doubletaponair.com/facebookLinkedIn: https://www.doubletaponair.com/linkedin Subscribe to the Podcast:Apple: https://www.doubletaponair.com/appleSpotify: https://www.doubletaponair.com/spotifyRSS: https://www.doubletaponair.com/podcastiHeadRadio: https://www.doubletaponair.com/iheart About Double TapHosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited. "Double Tap" is a registered trademark of Double Tap Productions Inc.

Some great news for blind and partially sighted people going to this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025 as Extant, the UK's leading professional performing arts company of blind and visually impaired artists, has announced plans to make an Edinburgh Festival Fringe venue fully accessible for visually impaired audiences.  This landmark Extant collaboration is with ZOO Venues in partnership with Sight Scotland and Visually Impaired Creators Scotland (VICS). Three headline performances at ZOO will feature Extant Enhance – a bold and innovative programme that reimagines access as a creative and collaborative process. The three shows are Holly Gifford's Big Little Sister, Shaper/Caper's Small Town Boys and Full Out Formula/Almanac Projects' I Think It Could Work. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Tam Gilbert, Extant's Trainee Artistic Director to find out more about this fantastic collaboration with ZOO Venues.  To find out more about the Extant collaboration with ZOO Venues along with more about access at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025 for blind and partially sighted festival goers do visit - https://extant.org.uk/project/edinburgh-festival-fringe-2025 (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)

Blind and partially sighted football fans were able to follow England football matches at this year's UEFA Women's Euros using audio description.  Hywel Davies has been hearing how the service was received and what's next for broadcaster ITV. 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)

Recent research by Brighton University has led to some dedicated accessible open swimming sessions launching in the city. Allan Russell spoke to Sadie Rockliffe to learn more... Read more about the sessions on the University of Brighton Website - Pioneering new project explores inclusive open water swimming with visually impaired community 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. 

When the Battle of Britain erupted, many Luftwaffe pilots anticipated a swift victory. Yet soon that confidence had been replaced by chronic fatigue and a crippling fear of drowning in “dirty water”. This Long Read written by aviation historian Victoria Taylor charts the mental disintegration of Hitler's flyers. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the July 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 cyber security, RHS awards and RNIB alumni. 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 A Smiling Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, 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 for 2025 A retelling on stage this week of Arnold Bennett's 1908 novel ‘The Old Wives' Tale' set among the Punjabi Sikh community of Wolverhampton in ‘Marriage Material' at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith. About ‘Marriage Material': Marriage Material By Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti, based on the novel by Sathnam Sanghera. Three Generations. Two Love Stories. One Family Secret. “In our shops we will be Kings of England. And we will make this place our place. The Bains' corner shop in Wolverhampton has been at the centre of the family for three generations. Against the backdrop of a changing 20th century, Mrs Bains is balancing running the business, caring for her ailing husband and the demands of her two headstrong daughters, who each have their eye on a different kind of future. Fast forward to the present day, a family tragedy pulls Arjan Bains back from a life in London. The shop represents everything he was trying to escape, but with his mother insisting it remain open, how long can he stay away? Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti (A Kind of People) adapts the critically acclaimed novel from Sathnam Sanghera (Empireland). Directed by Rep Associate Director and 2022 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony Director, Iqbal Khan (East Is East, Of Mice and Men, Tartuffe, SILENCE). For 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 underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

UK charity Guide Dogs has recently come out of a period of Transformation, where it looked at staffing, services and running costs. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Guide Dogs CEO Andrew Lennox to discuss the changes. For more info on Guide Dogs, go to www.guidedogs.org.uk You can also call their helpline on 0800 781 1444 #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. 

Alan Macdonald is sound engineer from Oban who could be the new voice of Lidl Self-Checkouts in Scotland. Amelia spoke to him about his sight loss journey, career so far and taking part in the competition. You can vote for Alan by going to https://unexpectedscottishvoice.co.uk/ 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. 

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. 

Hair and care CIC are hosting a film screening, panel discussion and art competition this fashion season. Hair and Care CIC have a Making Fashion Accessible Initiative this season. They're screening a short film starring participants and volunteers, hosting a panel discussion on the importance of inclusivity and accessibility within the fashion and beauty industries and have an artwork competition for b and ps artists. Amelia spoke to Fiona Quinn the Business Development, PR & Marketing Manager, to learn more... Visit the Hair And Care CIC website for more information - Hair&Care | Self care Workshops for the Visually Impaired Community in Greater London 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. 

Would you like to learn about a befriending service for visually impaired people? Jennifer Murray chats to Zoe Dunstan, Senior Volunteer Coordinator from a sight loss charity called Cam Sight, based in Cambridge, England. If you would like to learn more about Cam Sight or even volunteer for the charity, you can contact them in any of the following ways: Cam Sight's General Email address: info@camsight.org.uk Cam Sight's Phone Number: 01223 420033 Cam Sight's Website: www.camsight.org.uk For any volunteering queries, you can contact the volunteer team direct via the following email address: volunteering@camsight.org.uk Image description: 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.

Phoenix Golf has risen from the amalgamation of several disability golf charities in Scotland. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Jim Gales, from Phoenix Golf, to find out why it's a great game for blind and partially sighted people to try out. For more info, go to www.phoenixcup.org.uk 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. 

Drugging, fraud, even murder – women couldn't really commit such heinous crimes, could they? Written by historian Rosalind Crone, this Long Read explores five audacious female-led felonies from the 18th and 19th centuries which bust misconceptions about women's lives in the past. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the June 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 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 Accessible Information Standard and the success of RNIB's Legacy Garden at this year's RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. 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

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 for 2025. This week we have a reimagining of Somerset Maugham's ‘the Constant Wife' at the Royal Shakespeare Company's Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon with description by Professional Audio Describers Julia Grundy and Carolyn Smith. About ‘The Constant Wife' ‘I can't help it if you were careless with your cigarette case. I was extremely careful with your heart' Constance has everything. A loving family, a beautiful home, a fulfilling career, and a husband as devoted to her as he is to his mistress. When her perfect set up is threatened, Constance fights back but refuses to play by the rules. Can she withstand society's expectations? And can society withstand the force of a woman determined to do things her own way? RSC Co-Artistic Director Tamara Harvey (Pericles) and playwright Laura Wade (Posh, Rivals) reunite after their Olivier Award-winning collaboration, Home, I'm Darling, to reimagine Somerset Maugham's subversive comedy, The Constant Wife, in a sparkling new version featuring original music by multi award-winning jazz artist Jamie Cullum. Rose Leslie (Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey, Vigil) plays Constance, a 1920s heroine with a decidedly modern spirit. For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company 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 underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Five years after the tragic and preventable death of Cleveland Gervais—a man with sight loss who died after falling from a London train station platform—it has been announced that tactile markings have now been implemented in all railway stations across Great Britain. David Hogg speaks to Cleveland's partner, Sekha Hall, and RNIB's Erik Matthies to learn more…

On the first public day of the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Anna Tylor, RNIB Chair of Trustees who is also a keen visually impaired gardener about what it means to the RNIB having Paul Hervey-Brookes designed Legacy Garden not only winning a Gold Medal but other awards at the show too. The RNIB Legacy Garden has been kindly supported by players of the People's Postcode Lottery. To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow Image shows Anna and Toby talking at RHS Wentworth Woodhouse

On the first public day of the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey chats with Beverley who is visually impaired and her sighted husband Richard about how they found it going round and exploring the Gold Medal Award winning RNIB Legacy Garden designed by multi-award winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes. The gold Medal award winning RNIB Legacy Garden has been kindly supported by players of the People's Postcode Lottery. To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow (Image shows a watercolour illustration of the RNIB Legacy Garden at RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. It features two lattice pods surrounded by green trees and colourful flowers. The setting is designed to be accessible and provide a rich sensory experience.)

There are nine AD performances with touch tours at the Edinburgh international festival this year, Amelia spoke to Callum Madge to learn more about what's on offer. See the full program on the EIF website - What's on | Edinburgh International Festival Learn more about access at the EIF on their website - Access | Edinburgh International Festival 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. 

Scotrail are holding events at railway stations across Scotland to mark Disability Pride Month. David Hogg caught up with RNIB Scotland's Connor Joseph to learn more…

Sam Ralfe (AKA blind mum) has started writing a series of children's audiobooks inspired by the adventures of her son and guide dog. Amelia spoke with her to learn more. Buy Leo and Toe Toe's park adventure on Ko-di - Leo and Toe Toe's park adventure audiobook - Sam Ralfe Blind Mum's Ko-fi Shop Find Sam on Facebook as BlindMum - Facebook Find Sam on Instagram as @blind_mum - https://www.instagram.com/blind_mum/ Find Sam on Tiktok as @samralfe - Sam Ralfe - Blind Mum (@samralfe) | TikTok 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  RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey chats with Helen Smith RNIB's Head of Legacy Engagement to find out how Press and RHS Members day has been in the Gold Medal Award winning RNIB Legacy Garden designed by award winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes. The RNIB Legacy Garden has been kindly supported by players of the People's Postcode Lottery. To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow (Image shows a watercolour illustration of the RNIB Legacy Garden at RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. It features two lattice pods surrounded by green trees and colourful flowers. The setting is designed to be accessible and provide a rich sensory experience.)

On the Press and Members Day at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey chatted with Nicole, one of the visitors to the Gold Medal Award winning RNIB Legacy Garden designed by multi-award winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes, to find out how Nicole found it going round the garden, exploring some of the tactile areas of the garden and how the garden is helping to raise awareness of sight loss too.  The gold Medal award winning RNIB Legacy Garden has been kindly supported by players of the People's Postcode Lottery. To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow (Image shows a watercolour illustration of the RNIB Legacy Garden at RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. It features two lattice pods surrounded by green trees and colourful flowers. The setting is designed to be accessible and provide a rich sensory experience.)

On the Press and Members Day at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey chats with Niall, one of the RNIB Volunteers who has been manning the Gold Medal Award winning RNIB Legacy Garden designed by multi-award winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes, to find out how visitors have found it walking around the garden, exploring some of the tactile features, going into the sight pods and also what Niall thinks of the garden himself too.  The gold Medal award winning RNIB Legacy Garden has been kindly supported by players of the People's Postcode Lottery. To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow (Image shows Toby and Niall sat chatting on one of the seating areas in the RNIB Legacy Garden with Niall's guide dog at their feet)

Multi-award winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes has designed the gold medal award winning RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 which has been kindly supported by the players of the People's Postcode Lottery. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey went on a tour of the RNIB Legacy Garden with Paul Hervey-Brookes to explore some of the amazing features of the garden.     To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow (Image shows a watercolour illustration of the RNIB Legacy Garden at RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. It features two lattice pods surrounded by green trees and colourful flowers. The setting is designed to be accessible and provide a rich sensory experience.)

Join Jonathan Abro on the final of our Vietnam Travelogue series. This week he visits Saigon and visits the impactful war remnants museum, before his final stop at a beautiful beach. Tune in to 'The Lunch Break' on RNIB Connect Radio every weekday from 12 noon to 1pm for more Travelogues. 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. 

Toby Davey is in the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Wentworth Woodhouse 2025. RNIB is at RHS Wentworth this week and we'd love you to vote for the RNIB Legacy Garden, created by multi award winning Designer Paul Harvey Brookes for the People's Choice Award. Just go to rhs.org.uk/WentworthPeoplesChoice (Image shows a watercolour illustration of the RNIB Legacy Garden at RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. It features two lattice pods surrounded by green trees and colourful flowers. The setting is designed to be accessible and provide a rich sensory experience.)

Ever wondered what it is like to live, study and work abroad with a visual impairment? Well Jennifer Murray catches up with Gatz Sandro Fuertes Osorio to learn more about his experience. 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.

Jennifer Murray chats to Sabine Jover about her sight loss journey. 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.

With the Surfing England visually impaired sessions coming up fairly soon RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Paralympic triathlon bronze medalist, three times world champion visually impaired surfer and sports coach Melissa Reid to find out what it is like to go surfing as a visually impaired person and what it might be like stepping on a surf board for the first time too. Melissa will be at the up-coming Surfing England VI surfing sessions in Croyde, Devon on 14 and 15 August 2025 giving some advice about surfing to the blind and partially sighted people taking part, passing on her in-depth knowledge of the sport and some of her coaching techniques too.   There is more about the up-coming VI surfing sessions on the Surfing England website - https://www.surfingengland.org/2025/05/22/2025-vi-surfing-sessions/  (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 weekend's ‘Revvv It Up' festival in Dungiven, Northern Ireland will be a mixture of full throttle action and fundraising for good causes. Hywel Davies has been finding out more. For more information and tickets, visit the Revvv It Up Festival website - Revvv It Up Festival 2025 – A Weekend of Horsepower, Music & Family Fun! Tickets, Sat 19 Jul 2025 at 10:00 | Eventbrite

For over 9 years now, UK sight loss charity RNIB has been working and campaigning to make all NHS England patient information, available to blind and partially sighted people in an accessible way. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Anna Tylor and Khadija Raza, from RNIB, to find out if there's light at the end of the tunnel. If you'd like more details, please go to rnib.in/AIS2025 or visit www.rnib.org.uk #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.

With the RNIB Legacy Garden designed by multi-award winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes and kindly supported by players of the People's Postcode Lottery about to go on show at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse 2025 from 16 to 20 July 2025, RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Hazel Johnston Long term partnerships manager at the People's Postcode Lottery to find out more about how players have been supporting the work of the RNIB and helping to make the garden possible. Hazel began by giving an overview of how the People's Postcode Lottery works and how players have been supporting the RNIB for some time now.  Toby asked Hazel whether there were any features of the RNIB Legacy Garden that might work well in her own garden before asking what Hazel would like visitors to the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse to take away from visiting the garden and what Players might gain from knowing that they have helped to make the RNIB Legacy Garden possible too. To find out more about the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse, how to purchase a ticket for the show as well as ways of leaving a legacy donation to the RNIB do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/rhsflowershow And to find out more about the People's Postcode Lottery do visit - postcodelottery.co.uk Image shows a watercolour illustration of the RNIB Legacy Garden at RHS Flower Show Wentworth Woodhouse. It features two lattice pods surrounded by green trees and colourful flowers. The setting is designed to be accessible and provide a rich sensory experience.

Hans Holbein's masterwork The Ambassadors is an exquisite portrait of two 16th-century diplomats. But, as well as being artistically impressive, the painting is also crammed with symbols and hidden messages. This Long Read written by historian Tracy Borman deciphers the clues hidden in Holbein's work that betray the turbulence of a fateful year. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the June 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does sight loss impact creativity? How can you inject some more playfulness and expression into your daily life? We gathered three panellists in to discuss creativity and playfulness as a blind or partially sighted person in our latest Roundtable. Join composer Bobby Goulder, Writer Ellen Renton and Volunteer Liam Mckinney for this month's roundtable. Learn more about Bobby on his website - Bobby Goulder - Sound Without Sight Learn more about Ellen on her website - Ellen Renton 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. 

Alex Brooke is an amazing fundraiser and also a proud dad to 13-year-old Izzy, who also happens to be visually impaired following a diagnosis of Familial Exudative Vitreoretinopathy at birth. Recently, Alex did a 10K run in support of RNIB and he joined Paulina Kuchorew to tell her more about the event and his daughter. 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 NHS 10 year Plan, Welfare Reform, employment and Eastenders. 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 a smiling Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, 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 for 2025 This week we have ‘Ghost Stories' as the UK Tour visited the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Sue Reading. About ‘Ghost Stories' ‘An immaculately crafted evening of entertainment' - Time Out A truly terrifying theatrical experience created by The League of Gentlemen's Jeremy Dyson, and Andy Nyman, co-creator of Derren Brown's television and stage shows. GHOST STORIES mixes the very best of theatre with the buzz of a thrill-ride, delivering something truly unique. When Professor Goodman, arch-sceptic out to debunk the paranormal, embarks on an investigation of three apparent hauntings – as recounted by a night-watchman, a teenage boy, and a businessman awaiting his first child – Goodman finds himself at the outer limits of rationality, and fast running out of explanations. After exhilarating audiences for two years in the West End and across the world with record breaking, sell-out productions and a smash hit film, GHOST STORIES is “Genuine scary fun” (Sunday Times), a worldwide phenomenon more spine-tingling and fantastically terrifying than ever. “I had to sleep with the lights on” (Metro). Are you brave enough to book? For more about the UK tour of ‘Ghost Stories' with details of dates and times of performances around the country do visit the production website - https://ghoststoriesplay.com To find out more about access at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre including details of audio described performances 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 underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

On Wednesday 9th of July, the government's welfare bill passed its final House of Commons stage as MPs have voted in favour, following some further amendments.  But what could this mean for blind and partially sighted people in the UK?  Joining us now to discuss the bill is RNIB's Policy Lead, Roisin Jacklin. For the full RNIB response visit: Read the outcome of UK MPs final vote on the welfare bill | RNIB If you have questions around the bill you can call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 and if you would like to get involved in future campaigning email Campaign.Mailbox@rnib.org.uk 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 Braille Chess Association recently had a tournament in one of the UK's most iconic institutions. Amelia spoke to Abi Baker to learn more... Learn more about The Braille Chess Association on their website - BCA – Bringing Chess To Visually Impaired People 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. 

Do you enjoy listening to audio plays for radio? Well Jennifer Murray catches up with Tony Vale to learn about his involvement in the writing of audio plays. To learn more about Tony's work, you can contact him at the following email address: tony@valemail.uk Four By Four's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FourbyFourUK/posts/four-by-four-team-member-tony-vale-is-one-of-the-writers-for-this-community-led-/1813775638841772/ Image description: 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.

Enjoy the mesmerising Water Puppets and the thundering Train Street of Vietnam in this travelogue with Jonathan Abro. Tune in to 'The Lunch Break' on RNIB Connect Radio every weekday from 12 noon to 1pm for more Travelogues. 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. 

Join Jonathan Abro on the fifth of our Vietnam Travelogue series. This week he wanders along the Mekong river and tries more delicious food.  Tune in to 'The Lunch Break' on RNIB Connect Radio every weekday from 12 noon to 1pm for more Travelogues. 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. 

Jennifer Murray chats to Ania Grudna to learn about her sight loss journey. Image description: 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.

Malcolm X became one of the most influential leaders in the US civil rights movement – thanks largely, explains this Long Read written by historian Ashley D Farmer, to the women who shaped his life and ideas. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the June 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In Touch hears from the RNIB about their plans to participate in the Government's consultation on the Benefits Bill. They describe their position on the bill as it stands and how they will involve the voices of blind and partially sighted people in any consultations.With Wimbledon 2025 underway, In Touch looks at grassroots visually impaired tennis and a Yorkshire league, set up by an enthusiastic exponent of the adapted sport. The LTA outlines how visually impaired people can get involved with tennis in their area.Presenter: Peter White Producer: Beth Hemmings Production Coordinator: Liz Poole Website image description: Peter White sits smiling in the centre of the image and he is wearing a dark green jumper. Above Peter's head is the BBC logo (three separate 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 of a white circle). The background is a bright mid-blue with two rectangles angled diagonally to the right. Both are behind Peter, one is a darker blue and the other is a lighter blue.