Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘Macbeth’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of National Theatre’s “Macbeth”, which he saw at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. In this tragic tale, dark forces lead the Macbeths onto a bloody path for the crown. Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew. For more information about accessibility at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre visit: https://www.grandtheatre.co...
9m Mar 22, 2019
9m
Putting The Finishing Touches To My Film - '7 Days'
Blind Dave Heeley discusses putting the finishing touches to '7 days', a short drama charting the incredible and inspiring story of Dave as he attempted to become the first blind man to complete one of the world’s most grueling marathon challenges, the “Sevens” - seven marathons, in seven days on seven different continents. Audio description will be provided by Finty Williams, daughter of Dame...
11m Mar 21, 2019
11m
World's First Tactile Collider' Inspires Hundreds Of VI And Sighted Students
The world’s first interactive ‘Tactile Collider’, designed by visually impaired students, two scientists and a science teacher from the North-West, has created huge demand for an international science symposium Particle Colliders: Accelerating Innovation in Liverpool this week (22 March). The novel project uses 3D-printed magnets, whole body learning and ideas from an immersive zombie game app...
10m Mar 21, 2019
10m
New Tool Helps Men Choose Best Prostate Cancer Treatment
Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick delves into some of the latest medical headlines, with advice on, among other things, prostate cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Elizabeth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley. For more information visit: www.newlifepharmacy.co.uk (https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk/)
11m Mar 20, 2019
11m
Don’t Stay Quiet, Combat Loneliness.
New report by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, found that almost 50% of us struggle with loneliness. Losing your sight can also cause feelings of alienation, but is there a way to combat loneliness and where can we get help? RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley spoke with Amanda Watkin, General Secretary of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, to find out more abo...
8m Mar 20, 2019
8m
‘Don’t Eat the Whole Elephant’...!!
A new podcast series: ‘Don’t Eat the Whole Elephant’ by Vision Australia, is hoping to encourage blind and partially sighted people to focus more on their mental health and general wellbeing. Brought to fruition by producer Stella Glorie, each episode features VI speakers discussing topics like: problem solving, identity, sleep, and the impact of exercise on mental health. Jane Britt from Vis...
13m Mar 19, 2019
13m
Experience Sondheim’s AD ‘Sunday In The Park With George’
Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine’s masterpiece musical ‘Sunday in the Park with George’ will be performed with audio description at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland this coming Friday the 22nd of March. Telling the story of love, passion, and art, this award winning tale is one you won’t want to miss. Chris McKiddie, who’s creating audio-description for this moving performance, spoke with...
10m Mar 18, 2019
10m
Could Sleep Apnoea Be Linked With Eye Disease?
Lack of sleep can have many negative side effects, including a strain on our health and a risk of affecting our eyesight. But what if you suffer with sleep apnoea? What is this condition and how do we know if we have it? We spoke with John O’Reilly, Consultant in Sleep and Respiratory Medicine based in Liverpool, to find out who is most at risk and how to manage our sleep better. John was ta...
8m Mar 18, 2019
8m
How To Tackle Insomnia When Travelling?
It’s World Sleep Day and many blind and partially sighted people struggle with their sleep patterns. But what if you’re going on a big trip as well? Can that make your insomnia worse? Dave Gibson, Sleep expert and Osteopath on BBC’s 'Strictly Come Dancing', told us his best tips on how to get more Zzs. Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. For more information visit: www.sleep....
7m Mar 15, 2019
7m
Photography Without Sight
Nigel Limb lost his sight in a traumatic speedway accident a few years ago. Since then, Nigel has been getting his life back on track and eventually re-discovered his love for photography. Chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Nigel explains how he can take stunning pictures despite having virtually no sight. (Photo shows a silhouette of bikers speeding down an overcast beach, a c...
12m Mar 15, 2019
12m
Blind Dave Braves The Elements
It might be windy, it might be rainy, but our favourite adventurer – Blind Dave Heeley tackles the elements like a pro. Find out how, despite the awful weather, Dave managed to stay motivated and continued his usual routine of running, dancing, and DIY tinkering. Dave is speaking to RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. You can follow what Dave is up to on Facebook by searching for ‘Blind Dave ...
12m Mar 14, 2019
12m
Back From The Brink
In 2014 Stephen Ricketts’ life changed forever after he lost his sight without any warning. Stephen spoke with us last year as he was just learning how to fight of depression and taking strides towards getting his life back together. Now, Stephen is a changed man and speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, explains why he wants to help others like him and how much having a guide dog ...
15m Mar 13, 2019
15m
Blind Musician From Netherlands Showcases His New Album
Bert Louissen is a musician and singer-songwriter from Netherlands and has recently released his second album in English. Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Bert reveals where his passion for music came from and why writing in English seemed to be the next best step for his career. To find out more about Bert visit his website: www.bertlouissen.nl/en (https://www.bertlouissen.nl...
18m Mar 12, 2019
18m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews ‘The Magic Flute’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of Welsh National Opera's “The Magic Flute”, which he saw at the Millennium Centre in Cardiff. In this magical story filled with dream-like creatures and enchanted worlds, Tamino will set on a journey to rescue a captured princes with only a magic flute and set of magic bells to aid him. Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon P...
7m Mar 08, 2019
7m
Get Your Accessible Gardening Tips
It’s not long until spring and many of us look forward to getting our hands dirty as our gardens spring back to life. But are there any popular gardening tips that you should be looking out for? And how can you make the most of your garden if you’re blind or visually impaired? Mark Sage, Head of Horticulture for Wyevale Garden Centres spoke with us to advice how we can make the most of our li...
11m Mar 08, 2019
11m
Mumbai College Trains Blind Students For A Career In The Perfume Industry
College of Fragrance for the Visually Impaired (COFVI) is a unique education initiative in Mumbai, India, funded by Fragrance industry partners. Their course is designed to give visually impaired students the basic skills and training needed to work in the fragrance industry. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell spoke with Garry R Dix from CPL Aromas, who are one of the industry partners, to find...
7m Mar 08, 2019
7m
Musician Rik Jones Gets In Front Of A Green Screen
Blind musician and singer/songwriter Rik Jones caught up with us to chat about his latest exciting endeavours. Following his collaboration on Blind Dave Heeley’s documentary film ‘7 Days’, Rik chats attending his first film premier, recording a music video, and producing his own music. Rik spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. To find out more about Rik visit his website: http://rik-...
12m Mar 07, 2019
12m
Could Blind Dave Become A Career Adviser?
Adventurer and DIY expert Blind Dave Heeley spoke with us about his attendance at a career event for young people. Speaking with us from The Hawthorns football stadium where ‘The Real Apprentice 2019’ event took place, Dave revealed how the unusual day’s been going. Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. To follow what Dave is up to, search on Facebook for: ‘Blind Dave Heeley’ or...
11m Mar 07, 2019
11m
How To Keep Your Blood Pressure In Check
New Life Pharmacy’s Elizabeth Roddick made time in her busy schedule to once again chat with us about all things health-related. This week, Elizabeth discusses what can unexpectedly cause high blood pressure, how to keep it in check, and a shocking medical headline that suggests bipolar patients could be on the wrong drugs. Elizabeth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. Get in touch...
11m Mar 06, 2019
11m
Lack Of Eye Care Provisions Contribute To Rise In A&E Costs
A lack of eye care provisions are contributing to a rise in A&E costs and attendance. England, Wales and Northern Ireland are all lagging behind Scotland in National eye care provision. Barry Snell talks to the Director of the Association of British Dispensing Optometrists Clive Marchant to find out why this is.
6m Mar 06, 2019
6m
Event To Showcase Work Of Blind Artists and Authors
Visually impaired author Elena Sommers talks about an upcoming art & photography exhibition she has organised, with the help from the charity Losing My Sight UK. The exhibition aims to showcase the works of blind and visually impaired artists. Elena is talking to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell.
4m Mar 05, 2019
4m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews 'Beauty and the Beast'
ITV's Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of Beauty and the Beast, which he attended recently at the Birmingham Hippodrome. Vidar is talking to RNIB Connect Radio''s Barry Snell.
7m Mar 01, 2019
7m
Vidar Hjardeng's Reviews 'Swan Lake'
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of 'Swan Lake', which he saw at the Birmingham Hippodrome. Collecting over thirty international accolades including an Olivier Award in the UK and three Tonys® on Broadway, Matthew Bourne’s powerful interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece is a passionate and contemporary Swan Lake for our times. Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Rad...
9m Feb 25, 2019
9m
Loving Our Pets Make Us Healthier And Happier
We are a nation that love our pets, so to mark 'Love your Pet Day' (20th February), experts are encouraging us to spend more time with our four-legged friends than ever before – all as a thank you to the pets, for helping support our own health and wellbeing. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell spoke with Niamh Carwood, from the Mayhew Animal Welfare Charity and also Veterinarian Dr Jo Gale,  to ...
5m Feb 20, 2019
5m
Blind Dave Reveals His Romantic side
To mark Valentine's Day, our favourite adventurer -extraordinaire Blind Dave Heeley decided to share with us his more romantic side. With guest appearance by his lovely wife Deb, Dave reveals the secret to keeping the romance alive after almost 25 years of marriage. Dave is talking with RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley. To follow Dave, search 'Blind Dave Heeley' on Facebook or follow @blind...
13m Feb 14, 2019
13m
Are Pet Allergies Stopping You From Getting A Guide Dog?
Guide dogs are a vital part of the blind and partially sighted community. But what if you or someone you love is allergic? TV Psychologist Honey Langcaster-James chats with us about the best ways to keep the allergies at bay, and our pets close. Honey is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. To get more tips from Honey Langcaster-James go to: https://www.honeylangcaster-james.com/...
9m Feb 13, 2019
9m
Could Gene Therapy Save Your Eyesight?
For many gene therapy seems like a distant and unfathomable concept, however a recent successful gene therapy trial proves big changes are on the horizon. Talking with us about gene therapy and how it can revolutionise the future of eye health care, is the man behind the ground-breaking trial, Professor Robert MacLaren. Professor MacLaren is speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.
14m Feb 12, 2019
14m
Chris Packham – The Do’s and Don’ts Of Pampering Your Pet
Latest research shows that we’re keen to keep our pets happy, even when it means leaving the heating at high whilst we’re not at home. But with energy prices rising, is this really the right way to pamper our favourite companions? Naturalist and TV Personality Chris Packham and Belinda Moore from E.on spoke with us to advice on how we can look after our furry friends without dipping too far i...
12m Feb 12, 2019
12m
New Guidance Aid Makes Headlines Across The UK
There’s a new guidance aid making headlines across the UK. RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell caught up with Tom Forsyth and Laura Maclean, creators of Ramble Tag to find out how their innovative design is changing the game. For more information about 'Ramble Tag' visit:  www.rambletag.co.uk (http://www.rambletag.co.uk/) [Photo shows a sketched image of Laura and Tom showing how to use 'Ramble...
11m Feb 11, 2019
11m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews ‘Timon of Athens’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of 'Timon of Athens', which he saw at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Swan Theatre. 'Timon of Athens' follows Timon’s fall out of grace as she loses her money, her friends and the lavish life she was used to. Through its story, Shakespeare’s dark satire forces us to question where does happiness really lie? Vidar spoke with RNIB Con...
7m Feb 08, 2019
7m
A VI Friendly Exhibition Pushes Boundaries Of Experiencing Art
And exciting exhibition called ‘Sunset Reports’ will take place at the Edinburgh Fruitmarket Gallery next week. Exploring an appreciation of art through language and visual descriptions, the exhibition features work created in collaboration with visually impaired artists: Alan McIntyre, Anne Dignan and Andy Mackie. Juliana Capes, Lead Artist on the National Gallery of Scotland's Visual Impair...
15m Feb 08, 2019
15m
How To Conquer Insomnia
Do you struggle to sleep at night? Latest research shows that the average Briton has a ‘sleep score’ 33% below the ideal. Jason Ellis from the Northumbria Centre for Sleep Research and Angela Crouch from Nectar Sleep, spoke with us to explain what we can do achieve a perfect night’s sleep. Jason and Angela chatted with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. For the sleep quiz visit: www.nectars...
7m Feb 08, 2019
7m
Dave Heeley Reflects On His Movie Premiere
Last week Blind Dave Heeley attended the premier of his new film '7 Days', which was shown at The Birmingham Rep and focused on a challenge Dave took on ten years ago, when he completed 7 marathons, on 7 continents in 7 days. RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley caught up with Dave to chat about the big night. You can follow what Dave is up to on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heeley’ or through his we...
14m Feb 07, 2019
14m
BAFTA Predictions with Variety Magazine and Newport Beach Film Festival
The BAFTAs approach and our resident movie buff Kris Wallace wanted to get the low down on what the chances are we Brits will be taking home some awards this year. Kris talks to experts Jenelle Riley from Variety Magazine and Gary Sherwin from Newport Beach Film Festival. If you enjoy music from the movies, then take a listen to Sounds of the Silver Screen with Alan George.  On Mondays at mid-...
13m Feb 06, 2019
13m
Could Gum Disease Lead To Alzheimer’s?
New Life Pharmacy’s Elizabeth Roddick dropped by to bring us her latest medical advice. This week Elizabeth chats about gum health, how to quit smoking and some of the latest medical headlines, including: ‘Could Gum disease play a ‘central role’ in development of Alzheimer’s?’ Elizabeth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley. For more information visit: www.newlifepharmacy.co.uk (https...
13m Feb 06, 2019
13m
Blind Auditions To Open Doors For Diverse Opera Talent
An exciting opportunity, which aims to help aid diversity on the classical and opera stages, is set to launch in March this year. Founded by Melanie Lodge, an accomplished mezzo-soprano, ‘By Voice Alone’ offers an opportunity to sing for industry casting professionals with all applicants taking part in a blind audition. Chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Melanie explains how the...
12m Feb 06, 2019
12m
Get Involved- Don’t Overlook What’s On Your Doorstep
Once again we’ve caught up with white cane warrior Paul Quigley. This week Paul chats going to a community event ran by the Henshaws charity and explains how getting involved can help combat loneliness. Paul spoke to RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley. For more information about Henshaws, the northern charity supporting people living with sight loss and other disabilities, visit: www.henshaws...
15m Feb 05, 2019
15m
The Importance of Bedtime Stories
A new study shows that stage fright is causing parents to close the book on story time, with over a third admitting to feeling nervous or self-conscious about reading stories to their children. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell spoke to professional storyteller Kevin Graal to find out more and also to learn about an exciting new initiative Kevin is involved with, which aims to to guide parents ...
8m Feb 05, 2019
8m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews Tartuffe
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of 'Tartuffe', a wicked new comedy about faith, family and #fakingit, which he recently attended at the Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon. Vidar is talking to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell.
6m Feb 04, 2019
6m
Look out! Blind Dave Gets Behind The Wheel
This week Blind Dave has been a bit naughty as he went behind the wheel of a car! Dave also chats bringing out his best suit for the upcoming premier of the documentary-drama film: ‘7 Days: The story of Blind Dave Heeley’. Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. You can follow what Dave is up to on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heeley’ or through his website: www.blinddaveheeley.co.uk (...
11m Jan 31, 2019
11m
Blind Musician “Scores” His First Movie Soundtrack
Rik Jones is a visually impaired singer/songwriter and musician from Wigan who has fallen in love with music at the tender age of five. This year saw a very exciting opportunity come to fruition as Rik collaborated with adventurer and fundraiser Blind Dave Heeley on his upcoming film ‘7 Days: The story of Blind Dave Heeley’. Chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Rik explains how th...
10m Jan 30, 2019
10m
How To Date Safely?
Are you single and ready to put yourself out there? Recent findings show that many of us tend to put politeness above our own safety, even if we’re concerned for our well-being. Danni Brooke former undercover police officer, cyber security expert and star of Channel 4’s hit shows ‘Celebrity Hunted’ and ‘The Hunted’, chatted with us to offer some advice on safe dating. Danni is speaking to RN...
8m Jan 29, 2019
8m
AD Double Feature: Vidar Hjardeng Reviews ‘Peter Pan’ And ‘A Christmas Carol’
We have a treat for all the audio-description fans out there. This week, ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng prepared a special double review of two festive favourites: ‘Peter Pan’ and ‘A Christmas Carol’. Vidar saw Birmingham Hippodrome’s production of the ‘Peter Pan’ pantomime, and Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘A Christmas Carol’. Vidar is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. [Photo shows Ade...
11m Jan 25, 2019
11m
Blind Bride And A Fairy-tale Multisensory Wedding
Last year we spoke to Stephanie Agnew, a blind bride-to-be from Australia that was preparing for her special day. Now that the magical day has come and gone, Stephanie catches up with us to explain how her wedding became a one of a kind multisensory fairy tale. Stephanie is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. You can follow Stephanie on her Facebook page ‘Rocky and Me’. To view...
9m Jan 25, 2019
9m
The Benefits of Daydreaming
A third of Brits daydream for three or more hours every working day and while most bosses would disagree, it has actually been proven that daydreaming can help with creativity, productivity and performance RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell chats too TV psychologist, presenter and writer Emma Kenny to find out more...
6m Jan 25, 2019
6m
The Great Country Vs Alternative Debate
Music classification can be a tough business, and when an artist releases a song that defies the sound most people expect, it can cause confusion...and debate! Kacey Musgraves' album Golden Hour did just that and had both specialist shows Real Country and A Little Alternative spinning tracks from it. Due to this, and a small cross-show shade throwing, Steven Scott joined David Hogg on A Little ...
11m Jan 23, 2019
11m
Accessible Holidays For Blind And Visually Impaired People
Seable is an award winning social enterprise, organising accessible and active holidays for individuals, couples, families and small groups. They are also the only tour operator to offer a local chaperone service that will assist you during the entire holiday. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with Emma Shepherd to find out more about their unique service.
9m Jan 23, 2019
9m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘The Wizard of Oz’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng reviews the audio described performance of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ which he recently saw at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre‎. The family favourite, tells the story of a young farm girl who gets lost in a strange new world full of munchkins and magic. Accompanied by a talking Tin Man, a brainless Scarecrow, a big “Scaredy-Cat”, and her most faithful dog Toto, Dorothy embarks on...
7m Jan 18, 2019
7m
Over The Edge And Back - Let's Talk About Mental Health
Sometimes it’s easy to forget that sight loss doesn’t just affect the person that lives with it. Three years ago, Julie Limb’s world came crashing down after her husband suffered a horrific speedway accident. To help ignite conversation around mental health, Julie wrote a book inspired by the devastating effect the accident had on her family. Julie is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon...
17m Jan 18, 2019
17m
Blind Dave Takes To The Dance Floor
We’ve caught up with our favourite adventurer extraordinaire and this week Dave reveals what hobby he's finally picked up; much to the delight of his wife, Deb. Dave is chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. You can follow what Dave is up to on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heeley’ or through his website: www.blinddaveheeley.co.uk (https://blinddaveheeley.co.uk/)
10m Jan 18, 2019
10m