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
Theatre Company Leads By Example In Accessibility
Taking Flight Theatre Company wants to challenge perceptions of disability and disabled people and to place disabled, D/deaf & sensory impaired performers centre stage.   The company strives to push the boundaries when it comes to access, seeking new and exciting ways to make their work accessible to as wide an audience as possible.   Their currently touring with two of their accessible perform...
13m Sep 26, 2019
13m
Blind Pilgrim On The Trail Again
The Camino de Santiago is a network of pilgrims' ways or pilgrimages leading to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain.   John Honeyman is an avid traveller of the trail and also happens to be registered blind.   Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley, John recalls his latest pilgrimage and offers some tips for those considering travelling but unsure where to start.    If you...
13m Sep 24, 2019
13m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews AD ‘West Side Story’
ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng is back and this time he reviews the audio-described performance of West Side Story.   Based on the famous Shakespearian play ‘Rome and Juliet’ this musical production tells the story of two rival gangs and of course, two star-crossed lovers.    Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
9m Sep 20, 2019
9m
My Love/Hate Relationship With White Canes
A white cane can be a great aid for regaining independence after sight loss but it’s not always easy to embrace it.    Blogger Elin Williams from ‘My Blurred World’ spoke with us about the ups and downs of using a white cane and explained why after years of ignoring her cane she finally chose to pick it up.   Elin spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.    You can follow Elin’s blog on: h...
9m Sep 19, 2019
9m
Canines and Canes With Blind Dave Heeley
Blind Dave Heeley caught up with us about all things guide dogs and white canes, after he attended a very special event this week. Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley.    Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @blinddaveheeley. 
11m Sep 19, 2019
11m
Can You Audio-Describe Choreography?
There’s a work-in-progress studio sharing event taking place this Saturday 14 September at 11am-1pm at The Work Room, Tramway, in Glasgow.   Answering the question of: 'how can choreography be experienced, if not visually?' creator Louise Ahl and visual describer Juliana Capes are collaborating in hopes of creating a one of a kind audio-described experience for blind and partially sighted peopl...
12m Sep 12, 2019
12m
Blind Dave On Running & Singing With Elvis
Last Sunday Blind Dave took on the Great North Run and we’ve caught up with him to hear how it all went.   Dave also chats playing the bongos, singing with Elvis and fixing up his daughter’s van.    Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
11m Sep 12, 2019
11m
Getting Lost Blind
Getting around at an unfamiliar place is never easy, but it can become even more challenging if you’re blind or partially sighted.   We spoke with Reece Finnegan, who recently performed as part of the BBC Ouch series at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.   Talking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley about getting lost a lot and raising awareness about sight loss, Reece highlights the importance ...
10m Sep 11, 2019
10m
Could Statins Reduce The Risk of Glaucoma?
New Life Pharmacy’s Elizabeth Roddick dropped by our studios to talk all things health-related.    This time Elizabeth chats about Brexit-related HRT shortages and statins being used to reduce the risk of glaucoma.   Elizabeth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.   For more information visit: https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk/ 
14m Sep 11, 2019
14m
“Your World. Your Work Out”
New research by Sure Women found that over the course of their lives, women are inactive on average over 32 years.   This lack of activity can later negatively impact our lives, leading to multiple health complications, some of which might include sight loss.    Media medic Dr Sarah Jarvis spoke with us about the findings and why small changes can make a huge difference.   Dr Jarvis spoke with ...
7m Sep 10, 2019
7m
Vidar Hjardeng Reviews ‘Measure For Measure’
This theatre season saw Royal Shakespeare Company embrace diversity by creating an ensemble of actors representative of the world we live in today.    ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng has been to see an audio described performance of their show ‘Measure for Measure’ which stars blind actor Karina Jones.    Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
9m Sep 06, 2019
9m
Where Do Storms Get Their Names?
We all know that some storms come with a name, but do we know just how they get their names?   The Met Office has now announced the storm names for 2019/20 and we spoke with Met Office Meteorologist Bonnie Diamond to find out more.   Bonnie spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley.
8m Sep 06, 2019
8m
NHS To Offer New Gene Therapy Treatment For Rare Eye Disease
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) approved the use of a new gene therapy treatment that could slow down sight loss.   The exciting development could see NHS England patients living with a rare inherited eye disorder access the service as soon as early next year.   Charity Retina UK had been actively involved throughout the NICE decision-making process and we spoke wit...
9m Sep 04, 2019
9m
AI vs Eye Disease
Recent years saw developments in technology greatly improve the lives of blind and partially sighted people, but could we take these developments even further and use artificial intelligence to diagnose eye disease?   We spoke with ophthalmologist Dr Pearse Keane, who started a collaboration between Moorfields Eye Hospital and Google’s DeepMind in hope that patients with fast-progressing sight ...
12m Aug 16, 2019
12m
Vidar Hjardeng reviews AD ‘Provoked Wife’
It’s time for another audio-described review and this week, ITV’s Vidar Hjardeng talks about the latest performance of Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘Provoked Wife’. Lady Brute, tired of her drunk, loveless husband, risks her reputation by deciding to pursue a younger man. Vidar spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. 
8m Aug 16, 2019
8m
Reviewing The UK's First Fully Accessible Festival
LOOKfest, the UK's first fully accessible family festival took place recently in rural Herefordshire. The festival, which was hosted by LOOK UK, was created with visually impaired people in mind. RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell spoke with LOOK UK's events manager Elin Williams, to find out how the weekend went.
10m Aug 16, 2019
10m
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