Blind Dave Gears Up For London Marathon 2019
London Marathon 2019 is coming up and Blind Dave Heeley is preparing to take on the world-famous event for the 16th time. Find out how our favourite adventurer is keeping motivated as he chats with RNIB Connect Radio's Simon Pauley.
14m Apr 25, 2019
14m
How to Ensure Our Children Have a Healthy Diet
A healthy and balanced diet can not only aid our children's health, but it can also help their eyesight. But what can we do if our youngest one is very picky? Food Scientist and Flavour expert Dr Rachel Edwards-Stewart – spoke with us about fussy eaters and how to get our kids to try new things. For more information visit: https://www.hellofresh.co.uk (Photo shows a young boy dressed in a br...
12m Apr 25, 2019
12m
Fiaz Hussain Iqbal – An Incredible Story of Survival
Sight loss is never easy, but what if life throws another hurdle your way? In 2016 Fiaz Hussain Iqbal's world changed drastically after a horrific accident cost him his arm. Now three years on, Fiaz has fought hard to get his life back to how it was and is enjoying being a dotting dad. Fiaz spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. (Photo shows passengers rushing by a train parked at a ...
15m Apr 23, 2019
15m
Blind Dave On His Bike
Earlier this month adventurer and fundraiser Blind Dave Heeley was a little bit occupied. In fact Dave was busy pedalling through The Annual Albion Foundation’s Bike Ride, Baggies Bike Challenge 2019! Dave spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. For more information about The Albion Foundation visit: https://www.wba.co.uk/foundation/
11m Apr 22, 2019
11m
How To Tackle Hay Fever (With Dr Ranj Singh)
Allergy season is almost upon us and last summer almost 50,000 hay fever sufferers visited their GP. But is this always the right course of action? ITV’s Dr Ranj Singh and Pharmacist Maq Din explain how we can best manage hay fever symptoms and enjoy the warmer days. Dr Ranj and Maq spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. [Photo shows Dr Ranj dressed in a lab coat and holding up a stet...
9m Apr 17, 2019
9m
Keep Yourself & Your Dog Safe This Summer
As summer approaches and we start venturing outside more often with our furry friends, it’s worth considering what dangers lurk in the tall grass. Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio, professor of Zoology, Richard Wall advises how to best keep ourselves and our favourite companions safe. Professor Wall spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. [Photo shows a hand pulling on a blade of grass...
12m Apr 15, 2019
12m
Nicki Kelly Chats Music And Showcases Debut Single
Depression and sight loss can go hand in hand. When Nicki Kelly lost her sight unexpectedly 12 years ago, passion for music became her saving grace. Now, years on Nicki released here debut single “Show You What I’m Made Of” and speaking with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley she explains what inspires her. To find out more about Nicki’s music visit her website: https://www.nickikelly.co.uk/
16m Apr 10, 2019
16m
Guide Dog Saved His Life
When you lose your sight it can seem like an uphill battle to get your life back on track. Mark Pile spent almost 10 years in isolation before deciding that things needed to change and seeking out help. Now, Mike is bravely taking on the world with his fateful guide dog Echo at his side and the support of Blind Veterans UK. Mark spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. (Photo shows Mark...
12m Apr 09, 2019
12m
Confidence Is Beauty
New research found that confidence and beauty go hand in hand for Generation X women. We spoke with Confidence Coach Jo Emerson and Scientific Skincare Advisor Claire O’Connor to hear some tips for feeling confident and how we can achieve that when we’re blind or visually impaired. Jo and Claire are chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. For more information on making an appointmen...
9m Apr 09, 2019
9m
Could Drinking Hot Tea Or Coffee Double Your Risk Of Developing Cancer Of The Esophagus?
Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick popped in to RNIB Connect Radio HQ, to discuss some recent medical headlines, including one which suggested drinking hot tea and coffee could increase your risk of developing cancer of the espohagus. Elizabeth spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell. Get in touch with Elizabeth through the New Life Pharmacy website: http://www.newlifepharmacy.co.uk/
14m Apr 04, 2019
14m
The UK's First Accessible Family Festival
RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell chats to Kevin Satizibal from the charity LOOK UK, who are hosting this summer's LOOKfest - an accessible summer festival for visually impaired young people and their families.  It will take place on July 26-29th, in the great outdoors and under canvass in rural Herefordshire.
5m Apr 03, 2019
5m
Music Affects Future Tastes & Behaviours
If the youngster in your household listens to Reggae or Classical Music it could mean they will grow to be open to more things and be a little more adventurous in general. RNIB Connect Radio's Kris Wallace has been talking to leading neuro-psychological expert, Catherine Loveday of Westminster University, who’s been investigating how the music children hear growing up has a direct impact on th...
8m Apr 03, 2019
8m
You Snooze, You Lose
You might not realise it but those extra few minutes in bed could have a negative impact on your mental health. Professor of Psychology at Goldsmiths University Michael Banissy, and Mental Health Expert Matt Janes spoke with us about the importance of getting a good night’s rest. Michael and Matt chatted with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. For more information visit: https://www.evesleep...
9m Apr 02, 2019
9m
Can A VIP Be A Magistrate? (With Paul Quigley)
Can a Visually Impaired Person become a magistrate? White cane warrior and Connect member Paul Quigley puts on his research hat and investigates. Paul spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. If you are a magistrate or are considering applying please get in touch with us at: radio@rnib.org.uk
10m Apr 02, 2019
10m
Writing Helps This Blind Blogger Combat Stigma and Anxiety
Losing your sight can be a big shock and adjusting to a live with sight loss is never easy. However, not many of us feel comfortable talking about the obstacles and the stigma that we can face when blind or partially sighted. Elin Williams, author of award winning disability and lifestyle blog: ‘My Blurred World', spoke in a candid interview about living with sight loss, anxiety, stigma, and o...
13m Apr 01, 2019
13m
Busy Moms - ‘Don’t Neglect Your Health!’
It’s hard to have a balanced life as a busy mom. Latest findings show that many women put their health at risk by neglecting their own well-being when looking after their families. Elizabeth O'Shea, Leading Parenting Expert and Tan Kaur, Digital Pharmacist, spoke with us about the research and explained how to get that work-life balance without risking our health. Elizabeth and Tan spoke wit...
8m Mar 29, 2019
8m
Blind Dave: Toilet Humour & DIY
It’s time to catch up with Blind Dave Heeley, DIY expert and adventurer extraordinaire. But what has Dave been up to? Could he become the voice of Virgin Trains’ toilets? Find out as Dave drops some toilet humour whilst chatting with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley. Follow Dave on Facebook at ‘Blind Dave Heely’ or on twitter: @blinddaveheeley
11m Mar 28, 2019
11m
David Clarke On Disability Confident Workplaces
The RNIB recently launched their disability confident programme to increase employers’ knowledge about recruiting and retaining blind and visually impaired people within their workforce. RNIB Connect Radio’s Red Szell spoke to David Clarke, Director of Services for RNIB at the launch event.
5m Mar 27, 2019
5m
Zurich's Disability Inclusion Group Executive Champion On Being Disability Confident
The RNIB recently launched their disability confident programme to increase employers’ knowledge about recruiting and retaining blind and visually impaired people within their workforce. RNIB Connect Radio’s Basil Oxtoby spoke to Richard Peden, Disability Inclusion Group Executive Champion for Zurich at the programmes launch.
5m Mar 27, 2019
5m
‘A Mother Alternative’ - A Very Special Interview
David Hogg, host of ‘A Little Alternative’ has something very special prepared for you this week. As we’re nearing Mother’s Day, Dave invited his mom Susan along to the studio to present this Friday’s show together. The son and mother duo spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Simon Pauley about their bond and more importantly, how easy is it to present a show when your mom is watching… (Photo show...
12m Mar 27, 2019
12m
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