Blind Veterans UK Announce Measures To Keep People Connected
With the COVID-19 virus leaving the UK in lockdown, many of society's most vulnerable people are facing isolation. RNIB connect Radio's Barry Snell spoke to Fran McSweeney who is the Assistant Director of Operations, Blind Veterans UK to find out what steps they are taking to keep their members safe & connected.
7m Mar 26, 2020
7m
Blind Golfer Looks Forward To An Uncertain Future
Scottish blind golfer Barry McCluskey has enjoyed a phenomenal rise to the top of blind sport. Winning the US blind golf open and also playing a pivotal role in Europe's victory at the Vision Cup. 2020 was set to be a huge year for Barry as he looked to build on his success, with the British open being a particular personal goal. Now though Sport, like life in general, has been stopped in its t...
5m Mar 26, 2020
5m
Music Could Help You
If you're feeling down and alone there's something that's easily accessible and could help you get through the hard times. Blogger Elin Williams often writes about the power of music and its impact on her own journey through sight loss.  Elin's chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew. For Elin's blog visit: https://myblurredworld.com/ (Photo shows a spread of music albums with a pho...
10m Mar 26, 2020
10m
A Taste Of Spice: Chicken Côte Recipe
Would you like to learn how to make a delicious new recipe?   Kim Jaye is a Chef and RNIB Network Committee member and she recently released her recipe book ‘A Taste of Spice’ in large print and in support of Talking Books.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Kim shares her recipe for Chicken Côte with some helpful tips for cooking with a visual impairment.    You can find Kim Ja...
9m Mar 24, 2020
9m
Mother’s Day With Blogger Holly Tuke
Mother’s Day is fast approaching and we’re celebrating the day by speaking with blogger Holly Tuke to find out all about her mom and growing up with a visual impairment. Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew, Holly explains why having a supportive mom helped her stay confident and thrive for more in life.  You can follow Holly’s blog at: https://lifeofablindgirl.com/ 
7m Mar 20, 2020
7m
Mother’s Day With Blogger Elin Williams
Mother’s Day is fast approaching and we’re celebrating the day by speaking with blogger Elin Williams about her mom and how Elin’s visually impairment was a learning curve not just for her but for the whole family.   Elin spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew.    Follow Elin’s blog at: https://myblurredworld.com/
7m Mar 20, 2020
7m
Breaking Blind Stereotypes – Part 3
Media can often misrepresent the blind and visually impaired community through the use of stereotypes that are so ingrained into our society.     But can we challenge these internalised stereotypes and how do we do so without stigmatisation?    Dr Catalin Brylla, Lecturer in Film and TV at Bournemouth University and RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley discuss breaking down blind stereotypes in th...
18m Mar 10, 2020
18m
Protect Your Contact Lenses From A Dangerous Eye Parasite
If you’re a contact lens 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, a Professor of Parasitology at the University of the West of Scotland has been researching the dangerous parasite that lurks in water and came up with an ingenious and simple way to protect our con...
10m Mar 10, 2020
10m
Crosswords Made Accessible For The VI Community
Do you like doing crosswords but find them increasingly frustrating because of your sight loss?   A new development for the Amazon skill Puzzler, means it’s now accessible to blind and partially sighted people.    We spoke with tech guru Robin Christopherson who advised on the development and Ruth Oakley, the Creative Director behind the voice skill.   Robin and Ruth spoke with RNIB Connect Rad...
11m Mar 09, 2020
11m
'Joy’s World' Podcast Won't Get Forced Into A Box
Podcaster Joy Addo is, as she describes herself a ‘fat, black, blind, single mother’ who has a lot to say and has no time for being forced into a proverbial box.    Challenging stereotypes through her podcast ‘Joys’ World’, Joy shares with us why she started the podcast in the first place and why her voice is so unique.    Joy spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew.    You can listen ...
10m Mar 06, 2020
10m
Breaking Blind Stereotypes: Part 2
Media can often misrepresent the blind and visually impaired community, but how are negative stereotypes shown in media, how do they impact perceptions of sight loss, and what is the Supercrip Stereotype?   Dr Catalin Brylla, Lecturer in Film and TV at Bournemouth University and RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley discuss breaking down blind stereotypes in this 8-part series.   Listen out for epi...
17m Mar 03, 2020
17m
Ellie Wallwork discusses acting, life at university and whats next...
If you watch Call the Midwife, you may have recently seen a new mother with retinitis pigmentosa, RNIB Connect Radio’s Basil Oxtoby spoke to Ellie to find out more... [Photo shows RNIB Connect Radio logo]
7m Feb 25, 2020
7m
Ellie Wallwork discusses RNIB services
5m Feb 25, 2020
5m
Breaking Blind Stereotypes: Part 1
Media can often misrepresent the blind and visually impaired community, but how are negative stereotypes formed, how does society internalise them and can these misrepresentations lead to stigma?   Dr Catalin Brylla, Lecturer in Film and TV at Bournemouth University and RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley discuss breaking down blind stereotypes in this 8-part series. Listen out for the next episo...
14m Feb 25, 2020
14m
No Horizon for historical blind role model
Anyone looking for blind role models in history might be forgiven for thinking they didn't exist. But there were a few. Red Szell has been finding out about one whose story is being retold in a new musical.   Discussing the production No Horizon, which will be touring Yorkshire in March and April. This interview includes a preview of the song "Born Of Angels". For more information and ticket de...
13m Feb 24, 2020
13m
Explore Sound At London VI Workshops
Intrasonus UK champion immersive sound production by using sound to transform lives through music, dance and storytelling.   They’re currently offering workshops for blind and visually impaired people at the The Bloomsbury UCL Theatre in London and would like to invite you to come along.    We spoke with Composer and Sound Architect , Roberto David Rusconi about the project and why it’s so impo...
11m Feb 06, 2020
11m
Why Fashion & Accessibility Should Go Together
What we wear can help us feel more confident, but what should we do when fashion isn’t as easily accessible to us as we would like it to be?   Blogger and campaigner for change, Elin Williams spoke with us about fashion, accessibility, and negative stereotypes.    Elin spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    To follow Elin visit her blog: http://www.myblurredword.com
9m Feb 03, 2020
9m
How Volunteering Turned One Blind Woman’s Life Around
Sarah Matthews lost her sight due to a head injury six years ago, but since then she worked hard to put her life back on track.    Now Sarah keeps busy and amongst many things, loves to volunteer. One of the organisations Sarah volunteers with is Listening Books, an audiobook library for anyone who finds reading difficult due to a physical or mental illness, disability or learning difficulty.  ...
11m Jan 30, 2020
11m
Protecting The Rights Of People With Disabilities In Australia
In April 2019, the Australian Prime Minister announced an Australian Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability will take place.     After years of campaigning by people with disability and human rights advocates, the Royal Commission will look at ways of better protecting people living with a disability from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitati...
12m Jan 24, 2020
12m
Are You Protecting Yourself In The Gig Economy?
The gig economy can have its appeals with flexible working hours and the ability to work for yourself.    But latest research from Income Protection Task Force shows that many Britons are forced to take desperate measures to survive between pay days.   We spoke with Personal Finance Journalist Kara Gammell and Tracey Clarke who had to give up her job due to visual impairment.   Kara and Tracey ...
6m Jan 24, 2020
6m
Celebrating 5 Years Of ‘Life Of A Blind Girl’
Five years ago blogger Holly Tuke began her journey as a social media influencer and campaigner for change and awareness.   We caught up with Holly to find out how her life has changed since and what opportunities came with starting her blog.      Holly spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   You can follow Holly on: http://www.lifeofablindgirl.com    (Photo shows Holly dressed in a cos...
9m Jan 15, 2020
9m
”Blinded By The Run” – Alex Innes’ Story
Alex Innes lives with RP and he’s recently taken a more serious approach to running as his sight deteriorated.    Chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Alex explains his transition into running with a guide and discusses his next challenge, the Cambridge half marathon, through which he hopes to raise funds for charity Support 4 Sight.    If you’d like to support Alex’s fundraiser vis...
10m Jan 14, 2020
10m
Can Christmas Be Accessible?
How can we make Christmas more accessible for our blind or visually impaired friends and family this year?   We caught up with Elin Williams, author of the award winning blog ‘My Blurred World to hear some useful tips and recommendations on how to make Christmas accessible for everyone.   Elin spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   You can follow Elin’s blog on: http://www.myblurredwor...
6m Dec 12, 2019
6m
Blind Dave Plans An Escape From Colditz!
Colditz Castle, located deep in the heart of German, sits on top of a 255-foot cliff with a river down below. During World War II it was considered impenetrable and used as prisoner-of-war camp for those Allied officers who had repeatedly escaped from other camps.   Now, adventurer, fundraiser and all-around champion for change, Blind Dave Heeley will take on the challenging fortress and escape...
8m Dec 12, 2019
8m
Can Media Portray Disability Honestly?
Earlier this month, BBC pledged to improve portrayal of disabled people as well as increase the number of people with disabilities in its workforce to 12% by 2020.    RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley spoke with blogger Reece Finnegan about BBC’s report, diversity in the workplace, and his own experience of working in media as someone living with sight loss.   You can follow Reece on: www.reece...
16m Dec 10, 2019
16m
Flip The Narrative With ‘CanDoELLA’ Pt 2
'CanDoELLA' work daily to #flipthenarrative around children, young people and adults and change the approach to a positive one, ensuring that everyone has a place within our world and is able to be accepted equally for who they are.   Elly Chapple, speaks in part 2 about raising awareness, flipping the narrative, and their website: CanDoELLA.    Elly spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pa...
10m Nov 21, 2019
10m
Flip The Narrative With ‘CanDoELLA’ Pt 1
'CanDoELLA' work daily to #flipthenarrative around children, young people and adults and change the approach to a positive one, ensuring that everyone has a place within our world and is able to be accepted equally for who they are.   Elly Chapple, mom of Ella, the inspiration behind the project, speaks in part 1 about her family’s journey to a better understanding for her deafblind daughter....
8m Nov 21, 2019
8m
Sam Little Discovers Hidden Lives
Former RNIB Connect Radio presenter Sam Little is exploring Hidden Lives in a new BBC series. She caught up with Kris Wallace to tell him all about it, and explain what a pre-wedding Blackening is. Catch Hidden Lives (Episode 4): The Blackening on BBC iPlayer until Friday 6th December.
8m Nov 19, 2019
8m
Breaking Blind Stereotypes In Life & In Media
Stereotyping can have a negative impact on the lives of blind and partially sighted people and is often influenced by their portrayal in the media.    Dr Catalin Brylla works in the specialist field of undoing harmful stereotypes and as part of his work he has produced two documentaries, with a third on the way, which explore the everyday lives and artistic practices of artists living with sigh...
20m Nov 13, 2019
20m
Shaw Trust Disability Power 100: Haseeb Ahmad
The Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 is an annual publication that provides biographies of the top 100 influencers with disabilities in the UK.   This year, triathlete and activist, Haseeb Ahmad has been shortlisted as one of the Top 100 most influential disabled people in recognition of his achievements in sport, activism and helping improve the lives of blind partially sighted people.    RNIB ...
17m Nov 12, 2019
17m
Stockton Volunteer Raises Over £150k For Charity
John Clark from Stockton on Tees became an RNIB Sooty Box Collector after his retirement in 2012.    Since then, he helped rise over £150k in support of people living with sight loss.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, John explains what drove him to fundraising and why it’s important to stay active in retirement.   For more information about Sooty visit: http://www.rnib.org.uk/...
9m Nov 11, 2019
9m
A Taste Of Spice With VI Chef
Kim Jaye is a Chef and RNIB Network Committee member who’s recently released her recipe book ‘A Taste of Spice’ in large print and in support of Talking Books.   Speaking with us about cooking with a visual impairment, Kim reveals why it’s so important to retain your independence and how cooking can help achieve that.    Kim spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   For Kim's book visit: ...
9m Nov 07, 2019
9m
Blind Dave VS Anti-Guide Dog Activists
Adventurer, fundraiser and DIY expert Blind Dave Heeley is back and chatting with us about the controversial anti-guide-dog campaigning.    Only last year, Dave lost his beloved guide dog Seamus and he has his fair share to say when it comes to those that oppose service dogs.   Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @bl...
9m Nov 07, 2019
9m
Advent Of Change
There is a new advent calendar on the market, which instead of giving you something edible, donates money on your behalf to a range of charities, including RNIB. Basil Oxtoby spoke to the founder to find out more... [Image is Advent Of Change logo which is the words and the 'of' is between to calendar doors]
9m Nov 06, 2019
9m
Once Upon A Time In Zombieville
The award-winning sci-fi adventure for kids ‘Once Upon a Time in Zombieville’ is back!     A unique and crazy audio cartoon created with visually impaired children at its heart, the thrilling podcast follows Sam and Jamie as they investigate strange events at the local mine.     We spoke with creator of the show, Bigmouth Audio Founder and Managing Director, Stephen Scott about the series and t...
9m Nov 05, 2019
9m
Education Support vs Sight Loss
Earlier this year RNIB published their left out of learning report which indicated that just under half of local authorities have cut or frozen VI education services budgets over the last two years.   RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley caught up with blogger Holly Tuke to chat education, support and the importance of equal opportunity for blind and partially sighted young people.    You can foll...
7m Oct 30, 2019
7m
Would You Give Yoga In The Dark A Go?
Although only a small number of blind people see absolutely nothing, the challenges often faced by those with sight loss can be huge.   Charity RNIB have been asking people to experience some of these challenges by holding an event In The Dark to help raise funds and support blind and partially sighted people.   Dan Peppiatt from ‘Yoga Like Water’ recently held a huge Yoga In The Dark event for...
6m Oct 29, 2019
6m
Is Work Affecting Your Eyes?
New research warns that long hours spent at work are taking its toll on our health as strained eyes, sore backs and headaches top the list of the most common health issues suffered by UK office workers.    We spoke with William Higham, Behavioural Futurist and author of the Work Colleague of the Future report, and Stephen Bowden Ergonomist and Human Factors Consultant.   William and Stephen spo...
6m Oct 24, 2019
6m
Am I Missing Out On The Visual World?
Do you sometimes feel like your sight loss causes you to miss out on the “visual” world?    We spoke with blogger Elin Williams about the barriers brought upon by sight loss and the fear of missing out.   Elin spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   Visit Elin’s blog: https://myblurredworld.com/  (Photo shows Elin standing with her back to the camera and looking out onto a picturesque c...
8m Oct 24, 2019
8m
“Seeing Beyond the Eyes” Project Wins Prestigious Award
Last year Visualise Training and Consultancy launched “Seeing Beyond the Eyes”, a project which brings the optical and sight loss support sectors together to benefit patients with visual impairments.   This year the project has won Vision UK John Thompson Award for Excellence in Services, Support and Care 2019.    We spoke with Dan Williams founder of Visualise Training and Consultancy and disp...
14m Oct 22, 2019
14m
She Took The Leap For Charity
The Wirral Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted (WSBPS) is celebrating its 30th Anniversary and earlier this year Sue Hadley took a leap of faith in support of the charity.   She dived 14,000 feet out of a plane in a thrill-filled skydive to help raise important funds for a good cause.   Sue spoke about the experience with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    You can support Sue’s fundra...
12m Oct 16, 2019
12m
Transformational Award For Tackling Mental Health
When RNIB volunteer Tom Chalmers got the call to attend an award ceremony at the Scottish Parliament, he had no idea that his name would be drawn from the golden envelope. Tom, who has turned his life around thanks to his participation in a drumming group, was recognised for his work to tackle his own mental health issues and encourage others to improve their mental health. RNIB Connect Radio’s...
4m Oct 16, 2019
4m
There’s Life After Sight Loss
When ex-paramedic Andrew Westley lost his sight it put his whole life into question.    But now, thanks to the support of charity RNIB, Andy is back on his feet and helping others through sight loss.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Andy shares his story and his hopes for picking up blind driving.    If you need support you can get in touch with the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9...
15m Oct 15, 2019
15m
New App For Blind & VI Travellers
A new app could help blind and partially sighted people get from point A to point B without the unnecessary stress.    We spoke with James Grice, University of Kent student who’s been developing Stay On Route, an app created with the blind and VI traveller in mind.    James spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    For more information about the app visit: https://www.stayonroute.com 
6m Oct 11, 2019
6m
Not Blind Enough?
Nigel Limb lost his sight suddenly and painfully in a motorbike accident four years ago.    The crash left Nigel in a coma and when he awoke, he realised life as he knew it was over.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, Nigel opens up about the difficulties of rehabilitation and learning to cope with his limited vision.     You can find Nigel on Facebook: ‘Blindbloke Racing’ and o...
15m Oct 10, 2019
15m
Blind Dave Film Gaining Momentum
New film ‘7 Days’ tells the story of Blind Dave Heeley's extraordinary battle to take on one of world’s toughest marathons, the “Sevens” (seven marathons on seven continents in seven days).   We caught up with Dave to find out how the film is doing and what he thinks of having his story told on the big screen.    Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘...
13m Oct 03, 2019
13m
Wilberforce Trust Charity‘s New Ambassador
Nigel Limb lost his sight in a tragic speedway accident but he didn’t let that stop him from striving for more in life.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio Nigel chats being back on his bike, Guy Martin and Wall of Death, and becoming an ambassador for the Wilberforce Trust Charity.      You can find Nigel on Facebook: ‘Blindbloke Racing’ and on YouTube: ‘Nigel blindblokeracing’. (Photo shows Ni...
13m Oct 02, 2019
13m
Changing People's Perceptions One Blog At A Time
Holly Tuke is a blogger who through her blog ‘Life Of A Blind Girl’ raises awareness of living with sight loss.    RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley caught up with Holly to find out why she decided to start a blog and how it changed her life.     You can follow Holly’s blog here: https://lifeofablindgirl.com/ (Photo shows Holly wearing a black & white fuzzy jumper. She's smiling and looking to ...
11m Oct 01, 2019
11m
Supporting Those Who Face Barriers To Work
Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) is a national charity which just celebrated their 100th year anniversary.    Through their work in supporting the Armed Forces, people with disabilities and people who are unemployed, they aim to improve lives every day by inspiring those they help and supporting them to find work and lead independent lives.   We spoke with Sean Read who thanks to the help...
9m Sep 30, 2019
9m
Charity RBLI Celebrates 100 Years Of Supporting Veterans
Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI) was established in 1919 as Industrial Settlements Inc to offer crucial accommodation to troops returning from the First World War.   Celebrating their centenary this year, RBLI provide care, support and employment to Armed Forces veterans, disabled people and others with barriers to work.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley about their work i...
10m Sep 27, 2019
10m