Podcasts about rnib connect radio

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we are back at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon  again as Vidar reviews Emily Burns' bold and contemporary production of Shakespeare's tale of justice and morality ‘Measure for Measure' with description by Professional Audio Describers Gethyn Edwards and Carolyn Smith. About ‘Measure for Measure' ‘To whom should I complain? Who would believe me?' If you knew you could get away with a crime - would you commit it? Shakespeare's razor-sharp thriller, directed by Emily Burns (Love's Labour's Lost, 2024) is brought up to date in a heart-racing, relevant new version. This Measure for Measure is unmissable theatre with its finger on the pulse of what it means to expose lies, abuse and, ultimately, the truth. For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances do visit - https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access   (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week Matt talks about An important government paper on Employment and 2 big events the charity is behind on health and employment, plus a nod to the recent industry wins for RNIB Connect Radio. If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image Show  CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket

The University Of Bournemouth are exploring how training blind and partially sighted people in Digital Media can improve their wellbeing and social inclusion. Amelia spoke to Catalin Brylla, Principal Lecturer in Film and Television, to learn more... Learn more about the research here - Blindness and media engagement | Bournemouth University Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Glen Turner is a carer for his mum as she ages and her sight deteroirates. He's been sharing the challenges and lessons from his experience on his blog, Well Eye Never, and told Amelia how he's been looking after himself. Find out more about Glen and read his carer's journal here - Well Eye Never – Visually impaired accessibility advocate, culture vulture & London explorer Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Holly Thomas is a visually impaired Dance Artist, Choreographer and Audio Description Practitioner. ‘Half Light' invites audiences to awaken your senses and tune in to a reality where movement is revealed in sound. Part biographical, part fiction, Half Light draws upon Holly Thomas' lived experience of visual impairment and parenting to unmask a multi-generational story about the courage it takes to send your child into a world that you may not always understand. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Holly to find out more about her background as a Dancer, Choreographer and Audio Description Practitioner plus all about ‘Half Light' too'. Half Light' is on at the Arnolfini in Bristol on Friday 14 November 2025 with performances and touch tours starting at 4pm and more can be found by visiting - https://arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/hollythomashalflight/ To find out more about Holly do visit her website - https://hollythomasdance.co.uk (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

The RNIB elves are working with Santa to get lots of accessible letters out to blind and partially sighted children before Christmas. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell dropped into the Grotto to chat to Titch the Elf, try some quizzing and listen to Santa chatting with a little one… If you know a blind or partially sighted child, who'd love a letter, go to www.rnib.org.uk/santa To complete the form by November 30th. Don't worry if you miss that date, Santa can send a festive email to them, just email santa@rnib.org.uk before December 18th. #RNIBConnect Image Shows Titch The Elf, Titch Is Wearing Her Christmas Dress And Hat, Keeping Warm Standing By The Fire That Has Christmas Stockings Hanging On. 

Which Geese will be taking to the sky this month? Why do we celebrate fireworks night? Amelia shares some of the birds, celebrations and folklore you can enjoy this November. Learn more about the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - The year in nature Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

There are many ways in which you can help the RNIB in making a more inclusive society for blind and partially sighted people and one way is through the regular RNIB Voice of the Customer Focus Group meetings. The most recent Focus Group meeting was all about looking at the experience of volunteering as a blind or partially sighted person. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Charlotte Jones, RNIB Insight Community Manager and Grace Hill an RNIB Volunteer and focus group participant for a bit of an overview of the voice of the Customer Research Programme, and what it is like taking part in one of the focus group meetings. (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Did you know that there are times when a guide dog is trained to ignore a request from it's owner when out and about? RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Tim Stafford from Guide Dogs to find out why… If you'd like more info on Guide Dogs UK, go to www.guidedogs.org.uk #RNIBConnect Image Show RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters A Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath In Black Letters

Simon Startin is a Visually impaired Actor, Playwright, Director and Activist who has been playing The Blind Profit Tireseus in a thrilling new version of Euripides' timeless tragedy Bacchae at the National Theatre. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Simon during the run of Bacchae at the National Theatre and not long after attending one of the audio described performances of the production to firstly find out why Simon wanted to study theatre at the Royal Welsh Academy of Music and Drama, how he found it during the rehearsal process and preparing to play Tireseus on the National Theatre's Olivier stage, what help he needs when performing as a visually impaired actor and whether it was the right casting for him to be playing the blind profit in Bacchae. To find out more about access at the national Theatre including details of audio described performances of NT productions do visit - https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/your-visit/access/ (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

For the first time this year the charity Cards for Good Causes who through their website and pop-up shops sell a range of cards and gifts supporting many charities will be also selling in a number of their shops Braille Christmas cards in aid of the RNIB with an in-store facility to be able to print personalised Braille messages in the cards too. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Christine Ansell, chief Executive of Cards for Good Causes to give some background to the history of the charity and why they decided to offer Braille cards with the personalised in-store Braille message writing facility too.  To find out more about cards for Good Causes and the locations of their pop-up shops do visit - https://cardsforcharity.co.uk (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

As we move from autumn into winter for this week's check in with Glasgow based Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick it is all about how to keep safe from all the infections that seem to be around at the moment.  Elizabeth began by giving some good advice to RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey about whether it is better to wash with soap and water or use a hand gel, to then explaining how far a cough or sneeze actually travels which might shock us all. A bit of a discussion about being careful on touching contaminated surfaces and about mask wearing like we all did during the covid pandemic. Finally talking about having a good immune system and ensuring that we have are taking the right minerals and vitamins within our diet too. too.  To get in touch with Elizabeth you can email info@elizabethroddick.com or for more information visit - https://elizabethroddick.com/ Image:  Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell is joined by some of the RNIB Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they're working on. This month's topics include a call for your help with the assessment debate for Personal Independence Payments and get your MP to a Parliamentary event to support better vision rehabilitation. 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, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters, A Solid Pink Line Below & Connect Radio In Black Letters Below

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we have a new version of Edmond Rostand's ‘Cyrano de Bergerac' at the Royal Shakespeare Company's Swan Theatre, which Vidar says is one of the best productions he has seen in Stratford-upon-Avon with description by Professional Audio Describers Emily Magdij and Annette Stocken. About ‘Cyrano de Bergerac'  ‘No master to serve, no leash to bear. I walk as I please, and I speak as I dare.'   Poet, soldier and philosopher. Cyrano de Bergerac burns with brilliance. He's fiercely funny and intensely romantic – but behind the veil of wit is one large problem: his nose.   Haunted by doubts and too proud to beg, he watches from the shadows as Roxane – bold, beautiful and seemingly unreachable – falls for another man, Christian. But this handsome, tongue-tied young suitor knows his only hope of charming Roxane is to seduce her with words. And only one person can help…   Olivier Award-winning actor Adrian Lester (Riviera, Hustle, National Theatre Othello and Henry V) is Cyrano. Director Simon Evans (Staged, The Dazzle, A Day in the Death of Joe Egg) co-adapts with Debris Stevenson (Poet in Da Corner, My Brother's a Genius), bringing new life to this thrilling, lyrical tale of love and lies, longing and disguise. For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances do visit - https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

UK sight loss charity RNIB is calling for improved access to Vision rehabilitation Services to help those losing their sight. RNIBs Allan Russel spoke to Alexis Horam to find out why the services are so vital and what are the problems faced by staff. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

New research published by RNIB shows delays to support following a sight loss diagnosis are leaving blind and partially sighted people at risk. Titled Life on Pause, the report shows a fifth of local authorities in England left people waiting for more than a year for a vision rehabilitation assessment and subsequent support. Whilst 85 per cent of local authorities missed the RNIB recommended timeframe to offer assessments. This means thousands of people with sight loss remain Out of Sight and unable to access the support they need to live life to the full. Joining us now to share her experience of accessing rehabilitation services and the importance of being able to access them early on is Bhavini Makwana. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

In this podcast, Hubert chats to Claire Maxwell from our very own shop, as she gives us the lowdown of what's available for customers who would like to start getting ready for Christmas early. Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week Matt talks about the launch of the Out Of Sight campaign and petition, there's a look ahead to some big events in November and a Christmas nod to the RNIB shop. If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image shows CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt is wearing glasses and a grey jacket.

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we have the sensational story of the Mitford sister's with 'The Party Girls' at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith. About ‘The Party Girls' The glamorous Mitford girls cut a glorious swathe through pre-war high society, amidst the glittering world of debutantes and dukes. But as Fascism rises and political storm clouds crackle over carefree country houses, the bonds of sisterhood are threatened by new and treacherous desires. Amy Rosenthal's compelling, touching and witty new play explores the true story of a family riven by political extremism, seen through the eyes of Jessica (Decca) Mitford as she battles to stay true to her beliefs. Nancy aspires to be a celebrated novelist, Diana and Unity fall for the dangerous, charismatic leaders of the Far Right in Britain and Germany, and Debo sets her cap at a Duke. Meanwhile Decca crosses continents in her own passionate pursuit of love – but can she ever escape her sisters and her past? To find out more about access at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre do visit - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility/ (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Actor and comedian Jamie MacDonald sits down with RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell for a new series looking at life as a blind person. As you'd expect, their chat has a slightly tongue in cheek take on each topic… For more on Jamie, go to www.jamiemacdonaldcomedian.com Image: A photo of Jamie. Jamie smiles posing in a grey jumper in front of a grey background.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their regular email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: Punch - Saturday 1 November, 2.30pm, touch tour 12.45pm, Apollo Shaftesbury Avenue, London English Touring Opera: Elixir of Love - Saturday 1 November, 7.30pm, touch tour 6.10pm, Malvern Festival Theatre Lights Up and Audio Described Tour of Thirst: In Search of Freshwater - Thursday 13 November, 3pm to 7pm, Wellcome Collection, London Titanic - The Musical, Saturday 15 November, 7.30pm, King's Lynn Corn Exchange, Top Hat -  Saturday 15 November, 2.30pm, touch tour 1.15pm, Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff To find out more about these and other up-coming described arts events as well as details on how to sign up to the regular VocalEyes What's On email newsletter do visit - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

With the publication of the RNIB Life on Pause report stating that thousands of people with sight loss remain Out of Sight, with challenges in accessing local vision rehabilitation services leaving them without the support that they need to live life to the full. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Chloe Hesse about not only coming to terms with her sight loss but also her journey with local vision rehabilitation  To find out more about the Life on Pause report and how you can get involved in the Out of Sight campaign and sign the petition calling on the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, to make sure blind and partially sighted people get the support they need, when they need it do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/support-a-campaign/out-of-sight/ (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

RNIB are launching a new phase of their Out of Sight Campaign and you can get involved. Amelia spoke to Vivienne Francis, RNIB Chief Strategy And Public Affairs Officer, to learn more. To sign the petition visit: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

A pivotal European clinical trial of a new electronic eye implant has seen remarkable results.  The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed 84% of participants were able to read letters, numbers and words using prosthetic vision through an eye that had previously lost its sight due to the untreatable progressive eye condition, geographic atrophy with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).  RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Mahi Muqit, senior vitreoretinal consultant at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London who lead the UK arm of the trial to explain more about the results of the study and the technology used too. There is more information about this new pioneering eye device on the following pages of the Moorfields Eye Hospital website which also includes a link to register on the Moorfields research portal, ROAM which will give you access to current and future research - https://www.moorfields.nhs.uk/about-us/news-and-blogs/news/pioneering-eye-device-restores-reading-vision-to-blind-eyes (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

UK sight loss charity RNIB, has launched the first round of its job placements for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell spoke to Heather Barbara, RNIB Employment Advisor, to find out more. If you'd like more info on the job placements, go to www.rnib.org.uk/jobs You can also call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999 #RNIBConnect Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo

Find out about a Peer-to-Peer Support Group in Northern Ireland, that helps connect blind and partially sighted 18- to 35-year-olds. Organised by RNIB Northern Ireland, the group organises engaging activities for members to try out and do something fun together. Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew are members of the group, Natalie Devine and Cerys Stewart. To inquire about the group, call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk  Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

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 new tech offering from Be My Eyes and Tesco, there's news from Waymo and are you thinking about Christmas? If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999  Or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect Image Show  CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket

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. As we celebrate the 250 anniversary of Jane Austen's birth, we have a brand new stage adaptation of her comedy of manners with ‘Emma' presented by Bath Theatre Royal at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith About ‘Emma'  “I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like” The beautiful, high-spirited Emma Woodhouse is determined that she will never marry but loves to meddle in her friends and neighbours' relationships. When her confidante and former governess, Miss Taylor weds her fiancé Mr Weston, Emma, having introduced the couple, takes credit for the marriage and decides that a future in matchmaking lies ahead of her. So begins a comic journey through the lives and loves of Emma's acquaintances but as the romantic web she weaves amongst her friends becomes ever more entangled, will Emma herself get swept up in true love's wake…? Jane Austen's enduring comedy of manners is filled with memorable characters – the dashing Mr Knightley, Emma's friends Jane Fairfax and Harriet Smith, the mercenary Reverend Elton and his delightfully pretentious wife Augusta. This delightful new stage adaptation celebrates the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen‘s birth. To find out more about Bath Theatre Royal's production of Emma as it continues on it's UK tour do visit - https://www.theatreroyal.org.uk/events/emma/ And for more about access at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre do go to - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility/ (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

International theatre-collective Fish in a dress will be bringing their critically-acclaimed show ‘The City for Incurable Women' back to the Camden people's Theatre from 22 - 25 October 2025 with audio description at every performance.  ‘The City for Incurable Women' is an outrageous tale of medical misogyny based on the true story of patients performing 'hysteria' onstage in 19th century Paris. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Helena McBurney, co-founder of International theatre-collective Fish in a Dress who also wrote ‘The City for Incurable Women' to find out more about the show and the collective too. For more about ‘The City for Incurable Women' by Fish in a Dress and the AD performances at Camden People's Theatre do visit - https://cptheatre.co.uk/whatson/The-City-for-Incurable-Women-2025 (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Scottish Queer International Film festival is back for it's 10th year, with a variety of audio described films and accessible events. Amelia spoke to SQIFF Director Indigo Torres, SQIFF Access Coordinator Charlie Little and RNIB Scotland Social Action Community Co-ordinator James Kyle to learn more. See the programme and book your tickets here - SQIFF – Scottish Queer International Film 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. 

Paulina speaks with two young members of a peer-to-peer support group ran by RNIB Northern Ireland… Learn more about the services offered by RNIB NI here - Northern Ireland - services, support and information | RNIB 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, 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 buy talking about the announcement of RNIB's new Chief Executive, Simon Antrobus who will be taking over from Matt in early January 2026 and then to a bit of a round-up of RNIB presence at the Political Party conferences including the RNIB Fringe 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)

How can we embrace the colder seasons and look after our mental health? For our ‘wintering' roundtable, we brought together four panellists to share tips for making the cold months feel a bit brighter and discuss how they've gotten through darker times in their lives. Join Professor of Applied Counselling and Psychotherapy Research in Sight Loss Mhairi Thurston, RNIB Connect Radio's Pete Wild, Yoga teacher Dawn Blezard and Social Action Community Coordinator James Kyle for a cosy and candid roundtable. Learn more about Pete here - Meet the RNIB Connect Radio presenters | RNIB | RNIB Listen to Dawn on the Happy Hour - The Happy Hour - RNIB Connect Radio | RNIB Learn more about Mhairi here - Professor Mhairi Thurston

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This time Rifco Theatre, the award-winning theatre company behind hits like Frankie Goes to Bollywood and Britain's Got Bhangra, gave audiences an evening of laughter, romance, and larger-than-life entertainment with ‘Surinderella' at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Michael Hurst. About ‘Surinderella' Welcome to The Bolly-woods, where the naach is non-stop, the drama is bigger than your aunties, and the romance is straight out of a filmi blockbuster! Meet Surinder – sweet, strong, and stuck in a never-ending chore list thanks to her two selfie-obsessed, Insta-vlogging stepsisters who give her the name Surinderella.  Her only real support is the one and only Basanti, a cow with more attitude than a desi girl. Meanwhile, Prince Ravi  is drowning in shaadi pressure from his royal family. But when he accidentally bumps into Surinderella, sparks fly faster than a Bollywood dance sequence! Enter the fabulous Devi Godmother, arriving in full-on glam mode with magic, makeovers, and masala moves. With a dazzling Bollywood Ball, a mystical slipper, and a lot of bakwas, Surinderella's destiny is about to get a serious glow-up! Produced by Rifco Theatre & Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, in Association with Imagine Theatre and Watford Palace Theatre. For more about ‘Surinderella' and the current tour do visit - https://www.rifcotheatre.com/live-shows/surinderella-2 (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)

For World Sight Day 2025 (Thursday 9 October 2025) the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB invite everyone to #LoveYourEyes and help make the case for eye care that is accessible, available, and affordable for everyone, everywhere. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Simon Darvil, Head of Communications and Campaigns at the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), the organisation behind World Sight Day to find out more about WSD 2025, the #LoveYourEyes campaign, the Global Challenge and much more besides. To find out more about World Sight Day 2025, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, the #LoveYourEyes campaign, the Global Challenge and much more do visit - https://www.iapb.world/world_sight_day (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)

Dr Victoria Claire is a Professional Artist In Contemporary Sculpture who is also registered blind and her new exhibition ‘The Sense of Sculpture' invites audiences to experience sculpture through touch, sound, and emotion in the dark at The Art House in Wakefield from 18 October to 1 November 2025. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Dr Victoria Claire and Damon Jackson-Waldock, Co -Executive Director at the Art House in Wakefield explain more about ‘The Sense of Sculpture' and how the exhibition will help to show case how art can be made accessible to everyone and especially blind and partially sighted people. For more about ‘The sense of Sculpture' at the Art House, Wakefield do visit -  https://the-arthouse.org.uk/exhibitions/dr-victoria-claire-the-sense-of-sculpture/ To find out more about Dr Victoria Claire and her work do visit - https://www.victoriaclaire-beyondvision.com/contact (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)

At the recent Labour Party Conference in Liverpool over 40 corporate and business leaders joined the RNIB Fringe Panel Event where a dynamic panel of representatives from business and broadcasters shared how putting accessibility at the heart of their organisations can deliver real benefits to everyone. The panel was chaired by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant at ITV News, who was joined by panel speakers Sumaira Latif from Proctor & Gamble, David Padmore from ITV, and Christopher Patnoe from Google showcasing the great work that these three organisations are doing around accessibility. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Vidar for an insight and overview of the RNIB Fringe Panel Event at the Labour Party Conference 2025 discussing some of the topics raised at the event from both the panel speakers and questions from the audience too. (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)

Looking for a new audio drama, featuring guide dog shakes and guest-house mishaps?  Blind and Partially sighted people from the Teeside area have been creating a 4-part audio series which is launching this month. Amelia spoke to Pam Bennett, the Managing Director or Going For Independence, to learn more. 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 chat to some of the RNIB Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they're working on. 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

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This time we step into a world of deception, desire, and deadly ambition with ‘The Talented Mr Ripley' at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio describer Carolyn Smith. About ‘The Talented Mr Ripley' “I never wanted to murder anyone. It was necessary.” Tom Ripley is a nobody – scraping by in New York, forging signatures, telling little white lies – until a chance encounter changes everything. When a wealthy stranger offers him an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy to bring home his wayward son, Dickie Greenleaf, Tom leaps at the opportunity. But in the sun-drenched glamour of 1950s Italy, surrounded by shimmering waters and whispered secrets, Tom is seduced by the life Dickie leads – the freedom, the wealth, the effortless charm. Fascination turns to obsession, and as his grip tightens on Dickie's world, the lines between truth and deception begin to blur. What starts as an innocent opportunity spirals into a chilling game of lies, identity theft, and murder. In Mark Leipacher's new adaptation of The Talented Mr. Ripley, Patricia Highsmith's classic novel is reimagined for the stage in thrilling fashion! Originally published in 1955, the novel won the Grand Prix de Littrature Policire in 1957 and was named in 2019 on the BBC's list of the 100 most inspiring novels. Spawning movie adaptations, radio versions and TV spin-offs, don't miss its brilliant transition to stage this year! What is the story? From the smoky jazz bars of Manhattan to the golden coastlines of Italy in the 50s, the psychological thriller follows Tom Ripley, a nobody desperate to be somebody, slipping deeper and deeper into a labyrinth of lies, until the consequences of his choices begin to close in. The ten-strong ensemble cast is led by Ed McVey as Tom Ripley. Ed was one of the stars of The Crown. Bruce Herbelin-Earle from Netflix's Free Rein is Dickie Greenleaf and EastEnders regular and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Maisie Smith stars as Marge Sherwood. For more about the tour of ‘The Talented Mr Ripley' along with dates and times of performances do visit - https://thetalentedmrripleyplay.com (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

Alan Macdonald, a blind man from Oban, recently became the voce of self-checkouts in Scottish Lidl stores. He told Amelia about the competition, recording process and celebrations. Contact Alan via email on alanmacdonald79@gmail.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. 

Are you a fan of Channel 4's baking show ‘The Great British Bake Off' and think your baking might be worthy of a Paul Hollywood handshake or good enough for you to become star Baker?   Well now is your chance to take part in the technical challenge and bring your show stopper to the top table as Love Productions, the production company behind The Great British Bake Off, are really keen for blind and partially sighted people to apply and take part in the next series. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Molly Midlane, Casting Producer for the Great British Bake Off from Love Productions, to find out more about how you can apply as a blind or partially sighted person to become a contestant in the next series of Bake Off and how they are making the whole application process as accessible as possible for visually impaired people along with what assistance might be in place if you did make it to compete in that famous big white tent. For more about how to apply to become a contestant in the next series of ‘The Great British Bake Off' and to start your application process do visit -  https://eu.castitreach.com/ag/love/gbbo17/welcome.html If you have any issues filling in the online application form do either email applyforbakeoff@loveproductions.co.uk or call Love Productions on 0117 456 8530. (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)

Aneurin Bevan University Health Board is the first NHS Trust and Health Board in the UK to become an RNIB Visibility Better Employer. The Visibility Better Employer standard is an RNIB programme for employers, backed by major organisations including Tesco and the Department for Work & Pensions, helping them to become better and more inclusive employers for people with sight loss. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Katie Morgan-Jones, RNIB's Visibly Better Employer Advisor, Liz Thomas, Recruitment Manager at the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and David Chaffey, ABHB Disability Inclusion Officer who is visually impaired and was instrumental in the Health Board applying to become an RNIB Visibility better Employer, to give an overview of the process of how an employer becomes an RNIB Visibility Better Employer and what it means to ABHB on becoming an RNIB Visibility Better Employer. To find out more about the RNIB Visibility Better Employer standard and what is involved in the process of becoming a more inclusive employer for people with sight loss do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/equality-and-employment/employers/visibly-better-employer-quality-standard/ (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)

What birds can you listen our for as the leaves change? Where does the jack-o-lantern come from? Amelia shares the history, folklore and nature of October in this month's almanac. Learn more about the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - The year in nature Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font. 

Tate Britain presents the largest retrospective of photographer Lee Miller ever staged. Spanning the full breadth of Miller's multifaceted practice, from her participation in French surrealism to her war reportage, the exhibition reveals how her innovative and fearless approach pushed the boundaries of photography, producing some of the most iconic images of the modern era. Around 230 vintage and modern prints, including works on display for the first time, are presented alongside unseen archival material and ephemera, shining a light on the richness of her photographic legacy. At the Press View of the Lee Miller exhibition on Tuesday 30 September 2025 and just after the Curator tour RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey caught up with Saskia Flower, Assistant Curator, Modern and Contemporary British Art at Tate for an insight into the life and work of the Photographer Lee Miller. The Lee Miller exhibition continues at Tate Britain until 15 February 2026.  Audio described tours of the exhibition with one of Tate's Visitor Engagement Assistants can be booked in advance by either emailing hello@tate.org.uk or calling 020 7887 8888.   More details about the Lee Miller exhibition can be found on the following pages of the Tate website - https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-britain/lee-miller Image shows and installation view of the Photography of Lee Miller exhibition at Tate Britain with framed photographs hung on peach and pale blue walls.

A great opportunity for blind and partially sighted people living in South East London to try a range of VI sports at the South East London Sight Loss Council's Free Live Well, Get Active Day at Sidcup Leisure Centre on Saturday 25 October from 12 noon to 5pm.  Accessible sports and activities range from VI Tennis and VI Cricket to spin, Zumba, and yoga. All sessions are led by experienced coaches and are designed to be inclusive, so whatever your level, you can take part. RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by South East London Sight Loss Council member Steve Reed who is also a keen VI Bowls player to explain more about the Free Live Well, Get Active Day. More details and a booking form to attend the Live Well, Get Active Day can be found on the following website - http://bit.ly/48avXiQ (Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font)

RNIB are launching a new series of support groups run by qualified counsellors. Hywel Davies has been hearing about the benefits of sharing your story. Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

Each week, 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 with it being National Eye Health Week Matt began by talking about the launch of the RNIB Scotland and RNIB Cymru manifestos in the lead up to the 2026 Scottish and Welsh elections, then to the RNIB's presence at the party political conferences and the RNIB panel discussion at the up-coming Labour Party conference, and then ending with the WeWalk event in the RNIB's Grimaldi Building earlier this week. 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

Let's join Amelia in Birmingham at the Visionary Annual Conference where local, national, and international sight loss organisations gathered together. She stepped into the courtyard with Nathan Tree and Andy Smith from MyVision Oxfordshire to talk about their upcoming wellbeing walk and the benefits of getting outdoors. Learn more about MyVision Oxfordshire on their website - MyVision Oxfordshire - Supporting Visually Impaired People - MyVision Oxfordshire Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB' written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio' is written in black in a smaller font.

RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This week we have the return of a much-missed detective icon from the small screen to the theatre stage with ‘Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts' with some twists and turns, red a few red herrings and some rye humour too at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio describer Carolyn Smith. About ‘Inspector Morse:  House of Ghosts' A chilling mystery unfolds when a young actress suddenly dies on stage during a performance, and Detective Chief Inspector Morse embarks on a gripping investigation. What begins as a suspicious death inquiry takes a darker turn when the legendary inspector, together with DS Lewis, uncovers a connection to sinister events in his own past, twenty-five years earlier. Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts marks the first-ever major stage adaptation of the iconic detective. ITV's long-running Inspector Morse, hailed by Radio Times as ‘The greatest British crime series of all time', has inspired equally beloved spin-offs, Lewis and Endeavour. Starring Tom Chambers (Father Brown, Strictly Come Dancing) as Inspector Morse, this original story written for the stage is a must-see for fans of compelling detective stories and thrilling mysteries. Presented by Birmingham Rep & Melting Pot. Based on characters by Colin Dexter. Written by Alma Cullen For more about the tour of ‘Inspector Morse:  House of Ghosts' including dates and times of performances do visit - https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/inspector-morse-house-of-ghosts/ (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)