Events In The Dark (With Blind Dave)
Have you ever tried a dine-in-the-dark experience or perhaps you’ve been interested in giving an escape room in the dark a go?   Blind Dave Heeley and RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley chat all about these unique events and how it is to experience them as a blind or partially sighted person.     Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @blinddaveheeley  (Photo shows a woman ...
14m Aug 15, 2019
14m
Staycations & Accessible Holidays With Travel Expert Simon Calder
With Brexit around the corner, it could be worth considering UK for this year’s holiday trip.  We spoke with Travel expert Simon Calder and Rosalyn Smith from Leonardo Hotels & Jurys Inn, about staycations and accessibility.  Simon and Rosalyn spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. (Photo shows a sunlight view over Pentewan Sands in Cornwall. The sandy beach leads into calm blue waters, ...
8m Aug 14, 2019
8m
Accessible Tour & Workshop In Edinburgh
An exciting accessible art event will take place this Wednesday 14th of August in Edinburgh as part of the Edinburgh Art Festival. Lead by Juliana Capes and Alice Betts the Audio Described Tour & Workshop will start at Stills Gallery on Cockburn Street with the photographer Cindy Sherman’s exhibition Early Works, 1975 – 80.   We spoke with Alice Betts about the event and how art can be made acc...
8m Aug 12, 2019
8m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘Venice Preserved’
This week, ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews Thomas Otway's dark love story.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Vidar looks at the audio described performance of ‘Venice Preserved’ performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company.    Venice is sinking and with it a dark tale of love, violence, and betrayal unfolds a political thriller that will shock and thrill. 
10m Aug 09, 2019
10m
When Should We Check Our Kids’ Eyes?
A new survey from the Association of British Dispensing Opticians has highlighted a worrying lack of knowledge from parents regarding their children’s eye health.    We spoke with Dispensing Optician Daryl Newsome, a Board member and examiner with the Association, about the research and why parents should look at booking an eye test for the kids sooner than later.    Daryl is speaking with RNIB...
11m Aug 08, 2019
11m
A Sight-Robbing Parasite That Lurks In Your Water
If you’re a contact lenses user, you might not realise the danger you expose your eyes to by doing something as simple as letting your contact lenses come in contact with tap water.    Fiona Henriquez is a Professor of Parasitology at the University of the West of Scotland and has been researching a parasite that could potentially rob you off your sight.    Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Si...
13m Aug 08, 2019
13m
Don’t Risk Your Guide Dog’s Health
A new survey reveals that just over half of dogs could be considered obese. These statistics can be concerning, especially for those of us that rely on a guide dog for independence.      With our dogs’ health at stake are we providing our four-legged companions with the best diet?   Canine Nutritionist and Behaviourist, Anna Webb and founder of 'Poppy’s Picnic', Dylan Watkins spoke with us abou...
11m Aug 07, 2019
11m
Benefits Of Being Registered Blind
Sight loss comes with certain milestones that are not always easy to accept; being registered severely sight impaired or blind can be considered one such adjustment.   We spoke with Daniel Williams, founder of Visualise Training and Consultancy, about the benefits of being registered blind or severely sight impaired and why it’s important to embrace that part of sight loss.   Daniel spoke with ...
10m Aug 07, 2019
10m
London’s First Accessible Escape Room
Escape Rooms are lots of fun, but can be very frustrating if you can’t see properly, taking away from the whole experience.   Frustrated with lack of accessible options Hannah Hammond with the support of Ministry of Startups created Access Escape, London’s first ever Escape Room that is played completely in the dark.    Hannah spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley about the unique idea a...
9m Aug 06, 2019
9m
Research That Could Change The Future Of Glaucoma Treatment
Exciting developments are happening as research funded by Fight for Sight and carried out by University of Cambridge and University of Melbourne looks at using molecular scaffolding to potentially save sight of millions of people around the world.    Professor Keith Martin spoke with us about the research and what it could mean for the future treatment of eye conditions like Glaucoma.   Profess...
11m Aug 06, 2019
11m
Brave Mum Sets Out On Her Sight Loss Journey
Kelly Ephgrave is a young mum of three boys who lives with a rare form of macular degeneration called Best Disease.   Over the years, the condition slowly robbed her of her sight and now Kelly faces the reality of two of her sons inheriting the disease.   Kelly spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley about the live-changing condition and why it needs to be researched more. (Photo shows Kel...
17m Aug 05, 2019
17m
The First Ever Blind Rugby World Cup
Gareth Davies lost his sight gradually throughout his adult life, but he didn’t let that stop him from giving it all to his passion, rugby.    Blind rugby has taken off in the UK over the last few years thanks to the Change Foundation and this year will see Team England attend the first ever Blind Rugby World Cup in Tokyo.    Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Gareth explains what...
13m Aug 02, 2019
13m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘Color Purple’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng is back with his latest review of an audio described performance.   This time Vidar takes a look at Birmingham Hippodrome and Leicester Curve's musical: ‘The Color Purple’.   Based on the Pulitzer prize-winning novel by Alice Walker, the story spans 40 years following the life of Celie, as she navigates racially divided southern America to try and find her own voice.   Vida...
8m Aug 02, 2019
8m
Nigel Limb Takes On The Wall Of Death
Nigel Limb lost his sight in a traumatic speedway accident a few years ago.   Since then, Nigel’s been back on his bike and next month will see him join the Ken Fox Wall Of Death UK, a death defying motorcycle stunt show.     Nige spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley about the exciting opportunity and why he’s not ready to give up his bike.   You can find Nigel on Facebook by searching ...
13m Aug 01, 2019
13m
One In The Eye For Blind Dave
Blind Dave had an unfortunate accident last week whilst going about his day.    Catching up with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Dave explained that there are some things you just can’t prepare yourself for.   Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @blinddaveheeley 
11m Aug 01, 2019
11m
Bacteria Could Improve Our Kids' Health
Latest research shows that exposure to more germs could be what our kids need to be happier and healthier.    Gut Microbiologist Dr Kate Stephens and Child Development Psychologist Dr Sam Wass spoke with us about the findings and why outdoor play should be encouraged.      Dr Stephens and Dr Wass spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   For more information visit: https://www.optibacprob...
9m Jul 30, 2019
9m
Sight Loss Vs Hot Rods
Bob Pattle worked as a jeweller for 40 years until diabetic retinopathy caused him to lose his sight.   However, Bob didn’t let that derail him from enjoying life.   Thanks to the support of his daughter, some great new friends, a little help from RNIB, and his passion for hot rod cars, Bob is enjoying life more than ever.   Bob spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    (Photo shows a sh...
17m Jul 26, 2019
17m
Blind Ice Skating Prodigy In The Making
When 7-year-old Izzy put her skates on for the first time earlier this year, her parents couldn’t have foreseen what a confidence-booster the activity would become.    We spoke with Izzy’s mom, Ruth George about the unexpected hobby, finding out Izzy was blind and the importance of letting your child gain their own independence.    Ruth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   You can fo...
10m Jul 25, 2019
10m
Blind Dave Fits Out A Campervan
Blind Dave Heeley took time out of his busy schedule to tell us all about his latest DIY project.   Working with his daughter Dave is putting his DIY skills to a test by fitting out her Volkswagen Campervan.   Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @blinddaveheeley 
12m Jul 25, 2019
12m
Can Myopia Be Slowed Down?
According to recent findings, rates of myopia in children are set to increase by almost 200 million over the next 30 years.    Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University are currently running two separate studies in hopes of slowing down the progression of myopia.    We spoke with senior researcher at Queen’s University Belfast, Professor Augusto Azuara-Blanco about the res...
13m Jul 23, 2019
13m
Experience An Extraordinary AD Performance With Opera North
Opera North is a touring company that brings extraordinary performances to many stages across Britain.    With a new season coming up, we spoke with Alice Gilmour, Community Partnerships & Access Officer  at Opera North to find out which performances will be available with audio description.    Alice spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    For more information visit: https://www.operan...
10m Jul 19, 2019
10m
Kids Vs Obesity
Latest ‘Play for Life’ report showed a worrying number of young kids starting primary school obese.   We spoke with Martin Haines, Biomechanics Coach and Chartered Physiotherapist to find out how we can best instil healthy habits in our children.    Martin spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    For more information visit: https://www.micro-scooters.co.uk/playforlife (Photo shows a smi...
6m Jul 18, 2019
6m
Are We Safe At Home From Hackers?
Is our privacy protected when we use technology, smart devices and browse the internet from the safety of our home?    Dr Mike Lloyd a cyber security expert and CTO at RedSeal spoke with us about a recent study into home cyber security and what it means for our privacy.   Dr Lloyd spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    For more information visit: https://www.redseal.net/ or https://ww...
11m Jul 17, 2019
11m
‘Born At The Right Time: A Memoir”
Professor Ron McCallum is a blind lawyer and the first totally blind person to receive a full professorship in any field at any university in Australia or New Zealand.    Speaking with us about his life, professor McCallum explains what inspired him to write a memoir with the unexpected title: ‘Born at the Right Time’   Professor McCallum spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    You can...
15m Jul 17, 2019
15m
Dancing With Horses - Nicola Naylor's story
Blind dressage rider Nicola Naylor discusses her love of horse riding, taking part in competitions and her aspirations to compete at Tokyo 2020. She is chatting to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell
7m Jul 17, 2019
7m
Denise Van Outen on losing childhood possessions
Losing a child’s favourite toy while on holiday can be devastating and traumatic. A new study reveals parents would pay vast sums or tell outrageous lies to lessen this upset for their kids – but is there another way? Celebrity Mum Denise Van Outen has been speaking to RNIB Connect Radio’s Kris Wallace about a new service that will retrieve lost toys for free from HomeAway. If you want to kn...
7m Jul 16, 2019
7m
‘I Lost My Sight For A Year’
In 2010 Michael Burton actor and member of the comedy group: ‘Yolav and Graham’ became a medical mystery as he suddenly and unexpectedly lost most of his sight, only to have it return a year later.   Now years on, Mike speaks about the experience and how it completely changed his approach to life.     Mike spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    To find out more about Mike’s stand-up c...
15m Jul 16, 2019
15m
Sight Loss And Denial Can Go Hand In Hand (feat. Paul Quigley)
When you lose your sight it’s never an easy adjustment. In fact, denial and reluctance to ask for help or support can easily become part of the sight loss journey.   White cane warrior Paul Quigley and RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley speak about the ups and downs on learning to live with sight loss.    If what Paul and Simon spoke about resonated with you and you’d like to reach out and get s...
13m Jul 16, 2019
13m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews an audio described performance of ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ which he saw at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.    Louis de Bernières' novel is brought to live in a captivating performance about love, war, and music.    Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    (Photo shows a mandolin laying on its side and half-submerged in sunlight water. Atop the ne...
10m Jul 12, 2019
10m
“Tech Brain Drain” – Could Diversity Be The Answer?
New research suggests UK might be hit with shortage of tech skills post-Brexit leading to a “tech brain drain”.   But could raising diversity and accessibility amongst business leaders be the solution?   Paul Smith Executive Vice President and General Manager at Salesforce UK and Anthony Walker CEO at TechUK weigh in.  Paul and Anthony are chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    For...
11m Jul 11, 2019
11m
Don’t Let Allergies Bring You Down
Allergies can put a real damper on our life. In some cases they can even affect your ability to get a guide dog.    We spoke with NHS GP and broadcaster Dr Ellie Cannon to find out what are the best ways of keeping allergies at bay.    Dr Cannon spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   For more information visit: https://uk.klarify.me/ (Photo shows a woman blowing her nose into a tissue) 
10m Jul 09, 2019
10m
Visually Impaired Tennis Star Aims To Reach The Top
Neil Fradgley recently starred at the International Blind Tennis tournament, winning silver in the B4 (partially sighted) mixed singles event and helping his country walk away as the leading medal winners from the 15 participating nations. To top off a brilliant tournament,  Neil's own victory means that he is now ranked number 2 in the World. Barry Snell caught up with the Isle of Wight native...
7m Jul 05, 2019
7m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘Hobson’s Choice’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews Birmingham Royal Ballet's ‘Hobson’s Choice’, which he saw at the Birmingham Hippodrome.   Watch feisty Maggie in this classic romantic comedy as she outsmarts her father and claims herself a husband and a brand new business.    Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
9m Jul 05, 2019
9m
A New Way Of Audio-Describing Opera
Have you ever seen an audio-described Opera?    There’s an exciting development in the world of audio-description and freelance audio-describer and voice-over artist Alice Gilmour spoke with us about her innovative project and what it could mean to the future of live performances.   Alice is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   For more information about Opera North visit: https:/...
14m Jul 04, 2019
14m
Coping With Your Child’s Sight Loss – Pt.5
Diagnosis of sight loss can be devastating, even more so if it's your children being diagnosed.   Emma Oates is a mum to Tom and Katie, both of whom have been diagnosed with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome, a rare genetic condition with highly variable symptoms including sight loss, reduced kidney function, and extra digits of the hands or feet.   Speaking with us about the challenges of parenting, Emma ...
12m Jul 02, 2019
12m
Trek To Machu Picchu And Raise Funds For Charity
 Next year Galloway's Society for the Blind will see a group of fundraisers undertake a trek of a lifetime by following the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.   Charlotte Carnell, Event Fundraiser for the charity spoke with us about this exciting opportunity and how you can get involved.   Charlotte is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    The information evening will take place on July ...
7m Jul 02, 2019
7m
RSC’s Pioneering Year of Diversity
This theatre season saw Royal Shakespeare Company embrace diversity by creating an ensemble cast representative of the world we live in today.    Karina Jones, an accomplished actor, aerialist, and belly dancer, stars in two shows: ‘As You Like it’ and ‘Measure for Measure’. She also happens to be registered blind…    Karina spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.  (Image shows Karina Jon...
15m Jun 28, 2019
15m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘As You Like It’
This week ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng chats about an audio-described performance of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘As You Like It’.   Directed by Kimberley Sykes and featuring a diverse cast, this comedic tale is a refreshing take on a Shakespeare classic.     Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
9m Jun 28, 2019
9m
You Are A Victim Of The Psychology Of Shopping
You’re probably aware that most shops use different tricks to encourage you to spend more, but are those tricks just as effective if you’re blind on partially sighted?    Professor Mike Nicholson from Durham University spoke with us about the psychology of shopping and whether the VI community is less or perhaps more susceptible to them.   Professor Nicholson spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Sim...
16m Jun 27, 2019
16m
Blind Dave Braves The Challenging Comrades Ultramarathon
Earlier this month Blind Dave Heeley headed all the way over to South Africa and took part in the 2019 Comrades Ultramarathon.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Dave recaps how the event went and why it was one of his most challenging endeavours.   Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @blinddaveheeley 
14m Jun 27, 2019
14m
So Xsighted - The Visually Impaired Morris Side
So Xsighted are a newly formed Mixed Border Morris side from Great Malvern.  Their aim is to have fun, keep fit, engage in the community and create more awareness around vision loss and break people's misconceptions about visually impaired people and what they are capable of.   RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with their joint squire Shirley Sheridan, to find out more
8m Jun 27, 2019
8m
Ask the Pharmacist: Mouth Cancer On the Rise
Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick dropped in to RNIB Connect Radio HQ to share her expertise & dissect some of the latest medical headlines. This week Elizabeth was discussing mouth cancer and joint pain. Elizabeth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   For more information visit: www.newlifepharmacy.co.uk (http://www.newlifepharmacy.co.uk/)
14m Jun 26, 2019
14m
Early Glaucoma Screenings Could Save Sight In China
When left too late glaucoma can lead to irreversible sight loss, which is why latest research carried out by Queen’s University Belfast, Wenzhou Medical University, Renmin University of China and Orbis International, focused on early prevention.   Professor Nathan Congdon from Queen’s University Belfast and Director of Research at Orbis International spoke with us about the research and what it...
12m Jun 26, 2019
12m
Coping With Your Child’s Sight Loss – Pt.4
Diagnosis of sight loss can be devastating, even more so if it's your child being diagnosed.   When Cameron was little he was diagnosed with Norrie Disease, a rare genetic condition that affects vision from birth and can also lead to loss of hearing.   Speaking with us about the life-changing diagnosis and the challenges that came with it is mom Carla Golledge who hopes that her experience can ...
13m Jun 25, 2019
13m
Accessible Gadgets (With Paul Quigley)
When you’re blind or partially sighted technology can become a lifeline that makes day-to-day life easier.   Connect Member and White Cane Warrior Paul Quigley spoke with us about his favourite accessible gadgets that he can’t live without.   Paul spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
10m Jun 25, 2019
10m
Scots Blind Golfer Helps Clinch Vision Cup
RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with Scottish blind golfer Barry McCluskey. Barry is just back from the Vision Cup in Dublin, where he helped Europe to victory over their North American counterparts, by sinking the winning putt. In this interview Barry reflects on a whirlwind few years and talks about his own plans for the future, which include working with visually impaired children...
6m Jun 25, 2019
6m
Protect Your Eyes From UV Damage
Many of us are aware of the need to protect our skin from harmful UV radiation, but are we just as good at protecting our eyes?   We spoke with Optometrist and columnist for Optometry Today Elizabeth Yeowart and Optometrist and vision care expert Dr Debbie Laughton, from ZEISS, to find out how we can best care for our eyes this summer.   RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley spoke with Elizabeth Ye...
7m Jun 21, 2019
7m
Southampton Eye Clinicians First To Use Cutting-Edge Procedure
An innovative laser procedure could double the number of patients receiving sight-saving transplants.    Parwez Hossain, Professor in Ophthalmology at the University of Southampton, spoke with us about the ground-breaking treatment and what it could mean for the VI community.    Professor Hossain spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. (Photo shows a close up of a striking blue eye) 
10m Jun 20, 2019
10m
Coping With Your Child’s Sight Loss – Pt.3
Diagnosis of sight loss can be devastating, but how do you take such news when it's your child being diagnosed?   Jackie Mann is a terrific mum to seven-year-old Micah who was diagnosed with Norrie Disease, a rare genetic condition that causes sight loss from birth and can lead to progressive loss of hearing.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Jackie explains how their life chan...
17m Jun 18, 2019
17m
AI Breakthrough Can Detect Early Signs Of Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, and it is predicted that 80 million people will have the disease by 2020.  For Glaucoma Awareness Week (17-23 June), The International Glaucoma Association (IGA) are raising awareness of the condition, as well highlighting the breakthrough in detection through the use of AI technology.  RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell spoke with K...
6m Jun 18, 2019
6m