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We all have childhood memories of playgrounds. But what can the evolution of outdoor play in Britain tell us about the experience of being young over the past 200 years? This Long Read, written by historian Jon Winder, serves up a history of sandpits, bombsites and battles with cars. 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
The assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC drove tensions sky-high in ancient Rome. As this Long Read written by historian Jessica Clarke reveals, plays staged at his funeral were carefully chosen to inflame anger and incite revenge on his killers. 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, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit 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 began with his review of RNIB's very own stand-up comedian Tom Skelton and his Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025 show ‘Visually Impaired Papa', then looking forward to the official opening of the refurbished RNIB Scotland office in Hill Side Crescent, Edinburgh next week plus some news around accessible voting and the RNIB's presence at the up-coming Party Political Conferences this autumn including a panel event at the Labour Party Conference. 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 smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image shows a smiling Matt
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 Cameron Mackintosh and Disney's spectacular production of the classic multi award-winning musical ‘Mary Poppins' as the UK and Ireland tour visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describers Julia Grundy and Jonathan Nash. About ‘Mary Poppins' Acclaimed Australian stars, Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, having both received critical acclaim and nightly standing ovations for their performances in the recent Australian production. Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the World's favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is even more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. The timeless score includes the classic songs by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman; Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds with new songs and additional music and lyrics by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. For more about the current UK and Ireland tour of ‘Mary Poppins' including dates and times of performances near you do visit the production website - https://marypoppins.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)
What are zines and how have they been used in disability justice? Amelia spoke to Adam Rose, the Co-curator of the Zines display, and Jake Blackavar, a Visitor Experience and Engagement Facilitator, to learn about tactile and audio zines and their upcoming audio described tours of the Wellcome Collection's exhibition. Learn more about Zines Forever! on the The Wellcome Collection Website - Zines Forever! DIY Publishing and Disability Justice | Wellcome Collection 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.
History meets punk rock and ballet in an exciting production at this year's Edinburgh International Festival. Amelia spoke to Co-Audio Describer Emma-Jane McHenry to learn more about the production and her process along with Co-Audio Describer Fiona Pedgrift. Learn more about the production here - Mary, Queen of Scots | 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.
Life is full of twists and turns that can change the path we're on. We gather three members of the blind and partially sighted community to talk about the big turning points and transitions in their lives. Join Goalball player and soon to be married Devante Claridge, mum and music lover Maureen Goddall, and paralympic champion Lizzi Jordan as they discuss dealing with change and imagining different futures. 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. Learn more about Lizzi on the British Cycling website - Lizzi Jordan - Great Britain Cycling Team Rider Profile Learn more about Devante on the MyVisionOxfordshire website - Devante Claridge - MyVision Oxfordshire Listen to Maureen's Guide Dog Blogs wherever you get your RNIB Connect Radio podcasts.
Clarke Reynolds, the UK's premier braille artist has teamed up with pepita coffee to make a limited-edition tactile coffee tin with a share of the proceeds going to RNIB. David Hogg learns more... Head to shop.rnib.org.uk to grab your coffee tin while stocks last…
Lunchbox is about the impact of bullying, through the eyes of a troubled Scottish boy, Steven and Pakistani girl, Lubna. Amelia spoke to comedian and performer Lubna Kerr about her show ‘Lunchbox' which has a touch tour and pre-show audio. Book tickets for Lunchbox here - Lunchbox | Edinburgh Festival Fringe Learn more about Lubna's writing, comedy and theatre work on her website - Lubna Kerr 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.
Time now to hear about one of the many audio described performances taking place at this year's Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) Hywel Davies has been hearing about ‘Cutting The Tightrope', a collection of short plays which explore the power of the arts in today's world. Learn more about Cutting The Tightrope on the EIF website - Cutting the Tightrope | 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.
Following on from a very successful pilot at the Museum of Craft and Design (MCD) in San Francisco Envision's AI assistant Ally could help to open up access to museums for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Karthik Mahadevan, CEO and co-founder of Envision to firstly find out how the pilot project came about using Ally to open up access to museums for blind and partially sighted people. Karthik also explained to Toby how the technology works in a museum and also shared some of the comments and feedback from visually impaired people who took part in the pilot. To find out more about Envision and the AI assistant Ally do visit - https://www.ally.me/museums (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)
In this episode of "Disabled and Proud," host Brooke engages in a heartfelt conversation with Anna Taylor, Chairwoman of the RNIB. A charitiy that specialises in helping to improve the lives of the blind and visually impared. Anna shares her journey of living with sight loss and the challenges she has faced throughout her life. From her early diagnosis of ocular cutaneous albinism to her experiences with prejudice and societal expectations, Anna reflects on the importance of resilience and self-acceptance. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Supportive Parenting : The discussion highlights the crucial role that supportive parents play in the lives of children with disabilities. The emphasis on resilience, self-worth, and the belief that one can lead a fulfilling life despite challenges is vital for personal development. Societal Attitudes Towards Disability : There has been a noticeable shift in societal attitudes towards disability over the decades. While progress has been made in terms of awareness and accessibility, significant challenges remain, particularly in areas like employment and healthcare. Accessibility in Healthcare : The conversation underscores the ongoing issues with accessibility in the healthcare system, particularly regarding the provision of information. Inaccessible medical documents and communication can lead to misunderstandings and inadequate care for individuals with disabilities. BEST MOMENTS "There's a very marvellous old-fashioned word. I think it's called something like prespare as opposed to despair. And it means there is hope." - Anna "I always knew it. It was always talked about. And I was encouraged to do everything in life." - Anna "If you can't fix it, then shuffle it off." - Anna VALUABLE RESOURCES https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878 HOST BIO Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves. The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational. Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”. As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media .https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
What is Wolfram Syndrome (WS) and how does it impact people's lives? Amelia spoke to Tracy Lynch, Co-Founder & Chief Executive of the UK's WS charity, to learn more about the condition and the support available. Learn more on the Wolfram Syndrome website - Wolfram Syndrome 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.
When Bob Geldof exhorted audiences to fill Wembley Stadium and empty their pockets for famine relief in Ethiopia, he changed the face of charity fundraising – and of live music. Forty years on, this Long Read written by David Hepworth – one of the BBC presenters on the day – explores the legacy of Live Aid. HistoryExtra Long Reads brings you the best articles from BBC History Magazine, direct to your ears. Today's feature originally appeared in the August 2025 issue, and has been voiced in partnership with the RNIB. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Each week, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit 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 RNIB partnership with Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire, improving access to bus travel for blind and partially sighted people with the ‘Swap-with-me' training sessions for bus drivers, visually impaired performers at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025 including RNIB's very own stand-up comedian Tom Skelton plus how England Lioness Goal Keeper Hannah Hampton has been raising awareness around sight loss talking about her own visual impairment. 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 smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image shows a smiling Matt
Join Amelia for another almanac - this month we celebrate the sturgeon moon and world bee day. Learn more about the nature and birds of July on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation Charity 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 Dan Daw show is a bold dance-theatre production where Australian dancer Dan fuses sexy choreography and touching theatricality to take a stand against ableism. The show, which is part of the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) explores how engaging in kink becomes an act of defiance and radical self-acceptance. Amelia spoke to audio desciber, Myra Galletly, about her career and her process for describing the show. Learn more about the show and book tickets on the EIF website - The Dan Daw Show | Edinburgh International Festival Learn more about the access pass here - Access Pass | 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.
One of many audio described performances at this year's Edinburgh International Festival (EIF) is Book of Mountains and Seas, an opera inspired by Chinese myths that confronts humanity's complex relationship with nature. David Hogg chats to audio describer Amanda Drollinger to learn more… Learn more about the show and book tickets on the EIF website - Book of Mountains and Seas | Edinburgh International Festival Learn more about the access pass here - Access Pass | 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.
Each month, RNIB Connect Radio speak to some of the RNIB Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they're working on. This month's topics include accessible voting in Newcastle and reflecting on achievements during the parliamentary year. 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 X or search your socials for RNIB Campaigns #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.
Award-winning storyteller Adam Linn brings his unforgettable solo show Sped Kid to the 2025 Edinburgh Festival Fringe, running August 1–25 at theSpace @ Surgeons' Hall. Based on Linn's true story, Sped Kid is a raw, funny, and fiercely original coming-of-age tale about going blind — and finding power, purpose, and rhythm in the unlikeliest of places. Set in 1984 Boston, the show traces 12-year-old Adam's journey from an all-white Catholic school to a chaotic public special ed program, where he lands on the “short bus” and discovers an unlikely tribe of breakdancers, dreamers, and rebels. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Adam just after he had arrived in Edinburgh to find out more about how he got into storytelling and more about bringing his autobiographical award winning show Sped Kid to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025. To book your tickets to see the award-winning Sped Kid at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025 do visit - https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/sped-kid And to find out more about Adam do visit his website - https://adamlinn.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)
Time now to hear about one of the many audio described performances taking place at this year's Edinburgh International Festival. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the dark puppetry of ‘Faustus in Africa'. For more information and tickets, visit the EIF website - Faustus in Africa! | Edinburgh International Festival Learn more about the access pass here - Access Pass | 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.
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.
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)
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)
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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…
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)
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.
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.
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.)
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.)
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…
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.)
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)
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.)
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
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