It’s time to celebrate the huge, positive, difference that volunteers make to charities across the UK.

Today Hywel Davies talks to Lisa Foulkes-Arnold and Amanda Foster, who are involved with RNIB’s Volunteer Advisory Council.

For more details on volunteering with RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk/volunteering

#RNIBConnect
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It’s time to celebrate the huge, positive, difference that volunteers make to charities across the UK.

Today Hywel Davies is talking to Paul Morris, a transcription service volunteer based in south Wales.

For more details on volunteering with RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk/volunteering

#RNIBConnect

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It’s time to celebrate the huge, positive, difference that volunteers make to charities across the UK.

Today Paulina is talking to Adam Pearson, explaining why he chose to volunteer with RNIB and how it lead to a job with the UK sight loss charity.

For more details on volunteering with RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk/volunteering

#RNIBConnect

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It’s time to celebrate the huge, positive, difference that volunteers make to charities across the UK.

Today Allan Russell is talking to RNIB’s CEO Simon Antrobus and the charity’s Chair, Anna Tylor, about the importance of volunteers in the 3rd sector.

For more details on volunteering with RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk/volunteering

#RNIBConnect

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Bill Blundell one of the 2026 London Marathon Team RNIB runners who helped to raise £200,000 for the RNIB chats with RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about what it was like running in the London Marathon as a visually impaired runner, why he wanted to run for Team RNIB and as a Trainer for his local running club Bill shares some top tips on both training and running in the London Marathon.

If like Bill you were thinking of putting your trainers on and running for Team RNIB in the 2027 TCS London marathon or running for the RNIB in either the London Big Half in September or the 2026 Royal Parks Half Marathon in October do visit the following pages of the RMIB website to find out more and how to sign up too - 
https://www.rnib.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise/challenge-events/?event_type=1&event_location=16

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Following on from the great success of the RNIB Gold medal winning Legacy Garden at the RHS Wentworth Woodhouse Flower Show 2025 the RNIB has been invited to create a garden for the RHS Sandringham Flower Show 2026 celebrating the 90th anniversary of RNIB Talking Books and the incredible impact that gifts left in Wills have on the RNIB’s work too.

Award-winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes is again working on the RNIB Talking Books garden which will feature in its design the play out of extracts from a number of chosen Authors books.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Best-selling Crime Writer Lynda La Plante who has recorded an extract from ‘Buried’, the first book in her Jack Warr series for the RNIB Talking Books garden to find out why she has chosen a very descriptive passage from the novel along with her thoughts on why it is so important for books to be made accessible to blind and partially sighted people.

The RHS Sandringham Flower Show 2026 featuring the RNIB Talking Books garden designed by Paul Hervey-Brookes that includes an extract from ‘Buried’ read by Lynda La Plante and supported by players of the Postcode Lottery is on from 22 to 26 July. To find out more and book your tickets do visit - https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-sandringham-flower-show 

Following on from the great success of the RNIB Gold medal winning Legacy Garden at the RHS Wentworth Woodhouse Flower Show 2025 the RNIB has been invited to create a garden for the RHS Sandringham Flower Show 2026 celebrating the 90th anniversary of RNIB Talking Books and the incredible impact that gifts left in wills have on the RNIB’s work too.

Award-winning Garden Designer Paul Hervey-Brookes is again working on the RNIB Talking Books garden which will in many ways bring the Library of the Imagination to life through the garden’s design.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Paul in our London studio and began by asking Paul what it means to him when one of his gardens like the RNIB Legacy Garden at the RHS Wentworth Woodhouse Flower Show 2025 wins a gold medal. Then to finding out more about Paul’s designs for the RNIB Talking Books Garden, how he will be bringing the library of the imagination to life through many features of the garden’s design, to what he would like visitors to the RNIB Talking Book Garden to experience while exploring the garden at the RHS Sandringham Flower Show 2026 plus some of his top tips for planting flowers too. 

The RHS Sandringham Flower Show 2026 featuring the RNIB Talking Books garden designed by Paul and supported by players of the Postcode Lottery is on from 22 to 26 July. To find out more and book your tickets do visit - https://www.rhs.org.uk/shows-events/rhs-sandringham-flower-show

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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about RNIB’s reaction to the King’s speech in Parliament and a celebratory visit to the Lords.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 

Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

Image Shows RNIB’s CEO Simon Antrobus, A Smiling Simon, Wearing A Black Jacket and A White Shirt.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

We stepped into the wild this week with a vibrant telling of Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’, celebrating the beauty of love in all its forms at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description from Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith.

About ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ 

Bard veterans and newbies alike will enjoy The Rep’s return to Shakespeare. Starring the hilarious Adam Carver (aka cabaret sensation Fatt Butcher) and set in the heart of Birmingham where Brummie accents punctuate this much-loved comedy.

When a love-struck teenager is forced to marry a man, rather than the woman she loves, she has a few options: certain death, live a lie, move to a nunnery… or flee to a messy, neon party in an enchanted forest!

Beyond the city walls, boundaries blur, music pulsates, and love is celebrated. Inhibitions are unleashed and love potions spill into more re-couplings than an episode of Love Island.

This night on the tiles also features a feel-good soundtrack of pop music and original songs that will have you dancing in your seats: but maybe Sweet Dreams aren’t made of this…? The feisty fairies are locked in their own conflict; the seasons are pulled into climate chaos and the young lovers’ moonlit escape from reality loses its shine.

Directed by The Rep’s Artistic Director, Joe Murphy and Deputy Artistic Director, Madeleine Kludje, step into the wild with this vibrant telling of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, celebrating the beauty of love in all its forms.

For more about access at the Birmingham REP including details of audio described performances do visit - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility/

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An upcoming fundraiser will see one yoga teacher tackle the Jurassic Coast walk.

Dawn Blezard from Pathway Yoga lives with Stargardt Disease and wants to support the RNIB, after the charity has been there for her since the diagnosis.

She spoke with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew.

Find out more about Dawn's fundraiser through her social pages, you can find her on Instagram or (9) Facebook

Saffie, a six-year-old girl from Stevenage who has the rare inherited eye condition Leber's Congenital Amaurosis (LCA), which prevents cells in the eye from making a specific protein needed for normal vision.

After tests were carried out at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, she was treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) and underwent Luxturna eye gene therapy treatment performed by Consultant Ophthalmologist Rob Henderson which has made a real difference to her vision and her life. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Saffie’s Mother Lisa Samford and Consultant Ophthalmologist Rob Henderson to find out more about Leber's Congenital Amaurosis, how the condition affects people’s vision, the eye gene therapy treatment and how the treatment has made a real difference to Saffie’s life.

You will find more about Leber's Congenital Amaurosis and the eye gene therapy treatment in the following news article on the Moorfields Eye Hospital website -
https://www.moorfields.nhs.uk/about-us/news-and-blogs/news/moorfields-breakthrough-treatment-shows-promise-in-children 

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Seable Holidays have secured funding for 16 young blind and partially sighted adults aged 18 to 26 to take part in a transformative trip to Sicily this autumn which will also help them to build their confidence around travel, independence and personal development too.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Damiano La Rocca founder of Seable Holidays to find out more about this amazing trip to Sicily for young visually impaired people.

to find out more either email Seable Holidays via info@seable.co.uk or visit their website - https://seable.co.uk

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Scottish talking magazine Playback is celebrating it’s 50th anniversary this year.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Playback presenter John Cavanagh, to learn about it’s history, the future and there’s a call for volunteers to get involved.

If you’d like more info on Playback, go to www.playback.org.uk

You can also call Brian West, on 0141 459 1317.

#RNIBConnect

Fancy improving your public speaking skills?

RNIB Scotland is partnering up again this summer with Glasgow Speakers Club to run a weekly Public Speaking Course for blind and partially sighted people.

Participants will develop confidence speaking in different situations from social settings to job interviews.

Joining RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew is previous participant, Jen Worrall. 

The public speaking course is going to run for six weeks in Glasgow and will take place Wednesdays between 1pm and 3pm, with the first meeting on Wednesday 3rd of June.

To find out more about the club get in touch via email with Conor.Joseph@rnib.org.uk or call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999

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Each week, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon began with the announcement that actor, and star of Disney+ UK’s ‘Rivals,’ Victoria Smurfit has been appointed as RNIB’s new President as Dame Gail Ronson DBE steps down after 14 years as President of the RNIB.

Also with many people voting this week in the UK elections for the Scottish and Welsh parliaments as well as the Council and Mayoral elections in England Simon talks about the work that the RNIB has been doing looking into how to make voting accessible so that visually impaired people are able to vote independently at the polling station.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk
You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999
Or ask your Amazon smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white and black background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Neil Atkinson, RNIB Scotland, Social Action Community Coordinator to find out how how he found it voting as a visually impaired person in the Scottish Parliament Election on Thursday 7 May 2026.  

Neil gives his thoughts on how accessible the whole experience was for him, the level of support he received from polling station staff, his thoughts on any accessible tools he was offered to help him vote independently as a visually impaired person and what could be done in the future to make the voting more accessible for him and other blind and partially sighted people.
 

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week it was all about the greatest show on earth as Vidar reviewed the current touring production of ‘Barnum’ as it visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional audio Describer Jonathan Nash. 

About ‘Barnum’.

Step right up and enter the dazzling world of P.T. Barnum, where imagination and ambition know no bounds. 

Hand in hand with wife Charity, Barnum’s life and career twists and turns as he schemes and dreams his way to headier heights.

West End favourite and TV star Lee Mead took centre stage as the legendary 19th century showman P.T. Barnum. Lee shot to stardom with his breakout win on Any Dream Will Do and acclaimed performances in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Wicked and Legally Blonde.

This spectacular new staging featured an extraordinary ensemble cast of over 20 actor-musicians playing 150 instruments, acrobats and amazing circus acts. Audiences are certain to delight at every sight, wonder and miracle that the name Barnum stands for.

Barnum first took the UK by storm when it played the London Palladium, with Michael Crawford making theatrical history with a death-defying nightly tightrope walk across the stage. And now, Lee Mead steps into Barnum’s shoes and on to the tightrope!

Come follow the band with the glorious music of multi-award-winner Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart’s lyrics and Mark Bramble’s book. Barnum features a whole host of classic show tunes including Join the Circus, Colours of My Life, Come Follow the Band and Love Makes Such Fools of Us All.

To find out more about the current UK tour of ‘Barnum’ do visit - https://www.kenwright.com/productions/barnum-2026-uk-tour/

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We are celebrating the power of people helping other people and an incredible £15 million in flexible funding raised by players of the Postcode Lottery supporting the work that the RNIB does to help blind and partially sighted people live more independently and with greater confidence too.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Laura Chow, Head of Charities at the Postcode Lottery to find out more about the history of the Postcode Lottery, the long standing partnership with the RNIB and the incredible support that players have made to many areas of the RNIB’s work which has made a real difference to the lives of many visually impaired people.

Thanks to funding raised by players and awarded by Postcode Care Trust, RNIB has received an amazing £15 million in flexible funding since 2018.

To find out more about the Postcode Lottery do visit - 
https://www.postcodelottery.co.uk

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We are celebrating the power of people helping other people and an incredible £15 million in flexible funding raised by players of the Postcode Lottery supporting the work that the RNIB does to help blind and partially sighted people live more independently and with greater confidence too.

One such area of the RNIB’s work is through Lara Marshall’s role as RNIB’s Libraries Engagement Manager and working closely with Fiona Tarn, Head of London Libraries to make a real difference to blind and partially sighted library visitors in London. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Lara and Fiona at Holborn Library in central London to find out how the funding has been helping to make library services more accessible to visually impaired people.

Thanks to funding raised by players and awarded by Postcode Care Trust, RNIB has received an amazing £15 million in flexible funding since 2018.

To find out more about making services more accessible like those at the London Libraries do either call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit the RNIB website - https://www.rnib.org.uk

And for more about the Postcode Lottery do go to - https://www.postcodelottery.co.uk

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The RNIB has announced today (7 May 2026) that actor, and star of Disney+ UK’s ‘Rivals,’ Victoria Smurfit has been appointed as the charity’s new President. Victoria takes on the role as Dame Gail Ronson DBE steps down after 14 years of dedicated service.

Victoria brings a personal connection to RNIB as mum to Evie age 21, who was diagnosed with Stargardt’s Macular Dystrophy as a child. Victoria also has a longstanding family connection to RNIB through her father, Dr Dermot Smurfit, an RNIB Vice-President, who has supported the charity for decades.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Victoria to find out how she feels taking up the role of President of the RNIB following on from Dame Gail Ronson DBE, more about her family’s long-standing connection with the RNIB, a couple of areas of work around sight loss that Victoria would like to champion as President plus reflecting on watching her daughter Evie grow up with Stargardt’s Macular Dystrophy.

Image shows Victoria and Toby with guide dog Boston behind the mixing desk in the Connect Radio studio in London

The RNIB has announced today (7 May 2026) that actor, and star of Disney+ UK’s ‘Rivals,’ Victoria Smurfit has been appointed as the charity’s new President. Victoria takes on the role as Dame Gail Ronson DBE steps down after 14 years of dedicated service.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Dame Gail Ronson DBE for a bit of a look back over her 14 years as RNIB President as she passes on the baton to Actor Victoria Smurfit.

RNIB has recognised Dame Gail Ronson DBE’s contribution to the organisation by awarding her the title of Honorary President, which means she will continue to have a close connection with the charity and its work.

Image Shows Dame Gail Ronson DBE and Victoria Smurfit stood outside the entrance of the RNIB's Grimaldi building in London

Bournemouth-based writer, theatre-maker and Audio Description Consultant Tam Gilbert is almost coming to the end of her time as the second Trainee Artistic Director at Extant the UK”s leading professional performing arts company of visually impaired artists and theatre practitioners.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Tam to find out more about her writing and theatre background, how her time as the second Trainee Artistic Director at Extant came about, what Tam has been doing as TAD so far, the “marking Time’ project looking into the prison experience from a visually impaired persons point of view, what Tam will take from her time as TAD at Extant and what might be next for her when her time at Extant comes to an end this summer.

You can follow Tam on social media by searching for Tam Gilbert theatre Maker. 

To find out more about Extant do go to - https://extant.org.uk

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There are many ways in which you can help the RNIB in making a more inclusive society for blind and partially sighted people and one way is through the regular RNIB Voice of the Customer Focus Group meetings.

The most recent Focus Group meeting was all about the RNIB’s research around Primary Eye Care with the focus group looking into community eye care. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Robin Kaye, Research and Insight Officer from the RNIB’s Insight team, Lucille who is visually impaired and took part in the recent Voice of the Customer Focus Group plus Rob Cooper, RNIB Director of Strategic Engagement and Implementation to find out more about the research and how the focus group meeting went too.

To find out more about the RNIB research programme and to get involved in future voice of the Customer Focus Groups do email community.insight@rnib.org.uk or call the RNIB helpline on 0303 123 9999.

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Collective Climate Repair is a UK initiative showing how simple, nature-based actions with plants and water can tackle climate change in practical, accessible ways lead by the Sensory Trust.

As part of the project the Sensory Trust in partnership with Trees for Cities are running a free tree touch tour in London’s Victoria park on Saturday 16 May from 2pm to 3.30pm for blind and partially sighted people.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Lynsey Robinson, Project Manager, Sensory Trust and Jessica Pereira Wawrzyniak, Engagement Manager, Trees for Cities to find out more about the free tree touch tour in London’s Victoria Park, the Collective Climate Repair project and how we can all play are part in tackling climate change.

To book your place and find out more about the free tree touch tour on Saturday 16 May from 2pm to 3.30pm in Victoria Park in London as well as more about the Collective Climate Repair project do visit the Trees for Cities website - https://www.treesforcities.org/collective-climate-repair

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Time to browse through some of the products that are available in the RNIB’s online shop as Charlee Jarvis, RNIB Shop buying administrator gives RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey a walk through some of the items that are currently on display including the Hable Speechlabels. 

Designed for blind and partially sighted people, the Hable Speechlabels are QR labels scanned by your smartphone allowing you to quickly and clearly identify everyday items through recorded labels and messages.

To find out more about the Hable Speechlabels that are available in the RNIB online shop and many more products do visit - https://shop.rnib.org.uk/connect

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RNIB’s See Work Differently Placement programme offers placements across RNIB Teams and gives people with sight loss the chance to gain real work experience with supportive employers and move closer to the jobs and futures they want. 

RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew is joined by Anita Marshall from the Legal Right Service team at RNIB, as well as Hannah Barrett who is currently doing her placement as an admin assistant within Anita’s team.

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Each week, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon began by celebrating and thanking all of the Team RNIB runners who took part in the 2026 London Marathon raising over £200,00 for the RNIB and then to the incredible £15million milestone in flexible funding since 2018 raised by players of the Postcode Lottery, awarded by the Postcode Care Trust to the RNIB supporting many areas of the charity’s work making a real difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk
You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999
Or ask your Amazon smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.
#RNIBConnect

Image Shows RNIB's CEO Simon Antrobus, Smiling, Wearing A Black Jacket With A White Shirt.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week Vidar is reviewing an award-winning stage adaptation of one of his favourite books as the current touring production of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describer Jonathan Nash.

About ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’

Aaron Sorkin’s riveting, award-winning stage adaptation of the seminal American novel about racial injustice and childhood innocence became a Broadway and West End sensation with star-studded sell-out seasons on both sides of the Atlantic. Now this thrilling courtroom drama is touring the country.

Successful lawyer, Atticus Finch, encourages kindness and empathy in his children, but is pushed to the limits of these qualities himself when he resolves to uncover the truth in a town that seems determined to hide it.

Set in 1934 Alabama, To Kill a Mockingbird was inspired by novelist Harper Lee’s own childhood and has sold more than 45 million copies worldwide. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature and was long at the top of the banned book lists.

To find out more about the current tour of ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ do visit - https://www.mockingbirdplay.com/tour

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It’s time to celebrate the huge, positive, difference that volunteers make to charities across the UK.

Today Barry Snell talks to RNIB's volunteer facilitator Angela Davey.

For more details on volunteering with RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk/volunteering

#RNIBConnect

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We are celebrating the power of people helping other people and an incredible £15 million in flexible funding raised by players of the Postcode Lottery supporting the work that the RNIB does to help blind and partially sighted people live more independently and with greater confidence too.

One such area of the RNIB’s work is the Visibly Better Employer Standard helping employers to support their visually impaired staff and job seekers too.

The Aneurin Bevan university Health Board in Wales was the first NHS health board to be awarded the standard.

RNIB Connect radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Katie Morgan-Jones, RNIB Employment Advisor Visibly Better Employer and David Chaffey, ABUHB Disability Inclusion Officer who is visually impaired and was instrumental in ABUHB applying for and being awarded the standard for an overview on the VBES and the impact it has had on ABUHB staff and patients too. 

Thanks to funding raised by players and awarded by Postcode Care Trust, RNIB has received an amazing £15 million in flexible funding since 2018.

To find out more about the RNIB Visibly Better Employer Standard do either call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit the RNIB website - https://www.rnib.org.uk

And for more about the Postcode Lottery do go to - https://www.postcodelottery.co.uk 

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If you'reblind or partially sighted and voting in the 2026 UK elections, there are various pieces of assistive technology, and staff support, on offer to help you cast your vote independently and in secret.

There are differences around the UK, so what can you expect?

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to RNIB to find out what you are entitled to.

If you’d like more info on what’s available to help you vote, accessibly, go to www.rnib.org.uk and search for voting.

You can also call your local council offices or RNIB’s Helpline on 0303 123 9999.

#RNIBConnect
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On the 3rd of May many birds will sing together in a symphony, Amelia is here to learn more about how to enjoy the dawn chorus with Beth Dean from RSPB.

Tune in again for tips on identifying birds by their song and how listening can boost your wellbeing.

Learn more about International Dawn Chorus Day on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation Charity

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If you’re a blind or partially sighted musician whose received funding from the Elizabeth Eagle Bot Memorial Fund then you could perform at a prestigious London venue this summer. David Hogg finds out more…

Please submit your expression of interest using this form by Wednesday 6th May 2026. If you require the form in an alternative format, please contact: mas@rnib.org.uk

We are celebrating the power of people helping other people and an incredible £15 million in flexible funding raised by players of the Postcode Lottery supporting the work that the RNIB does to help blind and partially sighted people live more independently and with greater confidence too.

One area that has been supported by the flexible funding is the RNIB Helpline and the role of the Digital Skills Advisors.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Mohammed one of the RNIB Helpline Digital Skills Advisors and Maureen an RNIB Customer who reached out to the Helpline at the beginning of her sight loss journey explains more about the support and advice that the Helpline provides to blind and partially sighted people and the fantastic support Maureen received from Mohammed which has enabled her to carry on with her life too. 

Thanks to funding raised by players and awarded by Postcode Care Trust, RNIB has received an amazing £15 million in flexible funding since 2018.

To find out more about the RNIB’s Helpline and how the Digital Skills Advisors can help you do either call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit the RNIB website - https://www.rnib.org.uk

And for more about the Postcode Lottery do go to - https://www.postcodelottery.co.uk 

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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about his visit to Belfast and RNIB Connect Radio’s ARIA nomination for their Read On show.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk you can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999
Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

Image Shows RNIB's CEO Simon Antrobus, Smiling, Wearing A Black Jacket With A White Shirt.

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell talks with the Campaigns team from RNIB in Northern Ireland, to discuss some of the latest pieces of work the team are undertaking.

Today Paula Beattie, RNIB Northern Ireland, talks about work with MLA Politicians on E-Scooter concerns and a look ahead to work, already underway, for the 2027 elections, to be as a accessible as possible for blind and partially sighted voters.

If you’d like more info from the team in Northern Ireland, email  campaignsni@rnib.org.uk
#RNIBConnect

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Time to browse through some of the products that are available in the RNIB’s online shop as Charlee Jarvis, RNIB Shop buying administrator gives RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey a walk through some of the items that are currently on display including the fantastic new IKONN range featuring kitchen scales, a tape measure and thermometers.

To find out more about the IKONN range of products that are now available in the RNIB online shop and many more do visit - https://shop.rnib.org.uk/connect

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The RNIB has just launched it’s new Sight Loss Data tool, which will carry a wealth of regularly updated information around sight loss. 

The tool can be used by professionals and the general public who are looking for insightful data on sight loss, along with geographical information.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell had a closer look at what the new accessible tool can do.

If you’d like to try out the new SLDT, go to www.data.rnib.org.uk

#RNIBConnect
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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about, a forthcoming visit to Belfast and his first meeting with the Visionary Group of sight loss charities.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 

Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect
Image Shows RNIB's CEO Simon Antrobus, Smiling, Wearing A Black Jacket With A White Shirt

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week we are back at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre for a bold adaptation of Andrea Levy’s multi award-winning novel ‘Small Island’ with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith. 

About ‘Small Island’ 

Journey from the sun-drenched shores of Jamaica to the cold, grey streets of 1940s London in Small Island, a powerful and intimate portrayal of Andrea Levy’s multi award-winning novel, adapted for the stage by Helen Edmundson. Directed by Matthew Xia, this bold staging offers a fresh perspective on a world shaped by empire and entitlement, caught between belonging and unbelonging, disappointment and hope.

Four unforgettable characters bring this Windrush story to life: Hortense and Gilbert, determined Jamaican migrants in search of belonging and respect; Queenie, an Englishwoman who defies convention; and Bernard, her husband, struggling with change. Together, they discover love across culture, colour and class – and the fragile hope of a shared future.

Spanning decades and continents, this brand-new production draws on the joyful rhythms of calypso and the harsh realities of post-war Britain to explore the emotional truth of our collective history, brought vividly to life through music, striking visuals and a compelling story you will never forget.

For more about the tour of ‘Small Island’ and further up-coming audio described performances do visit the Actors Touring Company website - https://www.atctheatre.com/production/small-island-uk-national-tour-spring-2026/

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May 7th will see elections take place across the UK and there’s some important deadlines and information for blind and partially sighted voters.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Liz Williams, RNIB Cymru, and Ella Griffiths-Downing, Electoral Commission, for more details.

#RNIBConnect

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A new course, hosted by the University of Strathclyde, will help boost the number of Vision Rehabilitation specialists, who provide a vital role for people who are losing their sight. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with Laura Walker, Visibility Scotland CEO, and Susan Shippey, Chair of Vision Collaborative Scotland, to hear more about the course and why it’s vital to build the low numbers of specialists in this area.

If you’d like more info on the course, go to www.sightscotland.org.uk/vision-collaborative-scotland or www.strath.ac.uk

#RNIBConnect

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The annual spending power of people with disabilities in the UK, Purple Pound, is worth Billions of pounds but service providers could be missing out on their share, if their customer service fails them at the starting line.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Gavin Neate from Welcome, to talk about the web based solution that supports the disabled customer, as well as the service provider, to find, or deliver, 1st class service.

For more info on the system, go to www.wel-co.me

#RNIBConnect

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The Linbury Prize exhibition at the national theatre in London presents the work of the 2025 prize recipients.

12 emerging stage designers have been selected for their technical skill, artistic ability and creative vision as the brightest talent from across the UK.

The exhibition is being made accessible to blind and partially sighted people through the use of the NaviLens codes not only to navigate around the exhibition but to hear descriptions of the prize winning Theatre Designer’s work too.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey visited the national Theatre to explore the Linbury Prize winning Theatre Designer’s work through the use of the NaviLens app on his iPhone and the codes dotted around the exhibition. Before going round the exhibition he caught up with Jock Maitland, Design Skills Coordinator from the Learning Department at the National Theatre to find out more about the history of the Linbury Prize and why the National Theatre wanted to provide greater access to the exhibition to blind and partially sighted people through the use of the NaviLens codes.

The Linbury Prize Exhibition continues in the Lyttelton lounge of the foyer of the Lyttelton theatre at the National Theatre in London until 6 June 2026 and more details can be found by visiting - https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/about-us/skilled-makers/linbury-prize/ 

(Image shows photograph of one of the costume designs by Kathy Udaondo, an off-white or cream coloured dress with long wide sleeves, a high neck, a wide skirt and long strips of the same fabric draping down the front of the dress from the shoulders. There is a blurred orange light in the foreground out of focus, perhaps a piece of furniture, and an abstract and illuminated blue wooden clad wall behind)

To end our coverage of Access To Work Week, Hubert chats to RNIB's Roisin Jacklin, to find out RNIB's take on the current situation with access to work, and also find out what support is available from RNIB.

Hubert also hears about how blind and partially sighted people can help by sharing their experiences of Access To Work.

If you’re blind or partially sighted and having problems with Access to Work, RNIB can offer advice and information. Please call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk

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As part of our Access To Work Week, Hubert chats to Alba, who is an ECLO at RNIB.

They talk about her support she gets, how important it is, and also her challenges she has been experiencing with Access to Work.

If you’re blind or partially sighted and having problems with Access to Work, RNIB can offer advice and information. Please call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk

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This week on RNIB Connect Radio we're focusing on Access to Work, an important Government scheme that enables blind and partially sighted people to start or stay in employment.

Joining RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew to share his experience of the service is estimator Jamie.

Jamie shares how having a supportive employer and receiving support from Access to Work has helped him stay in work.

If you’re blind or partially sighted and having problems with Access to Work, RNIB can offer advice and information. Please call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk

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This week on RNIB Connect Radio we're focusing on Access to Work, an important Government scheme that enables blind and partially sighted people to start or stay in employment.

Joining RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew to share her experience of the service is yoga teacher Dawn.

Dawn shares how the service helped her continue doing what she loves and also talks about her support being unexpectedly stopped for a few months without notice.

If you’re blind or partially sighted and having problems with Access to Work, RNIB can offer advice and information. Please call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk

Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font.

This week on RNIB Connect Radio we're focusing on Access to Work, an important Government scheme that enables blind and partially sighted people to start or stay in employment.

Joining RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew to share her experience of the service is disability advocate and award-winning journalist Emily Davison.

Emily shares what impact a sudden cut to support has had on her wellbeing and her ability to work at a level playing field with her colleagues.

If you’re blind or partially sighted and having problems with Access to Work, RNIB can offer advice and information. Please call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk

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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about budgets, fundraising and employment.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.
#RNIBConnect
 
Image shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week we have Malorie Blackman’s gripping Romeo and Juliet story ‘Noughts and Crosses’ at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith. 

About ‘Noughts and Crosses’

“Why love, if losing hurts so much?”

Sephy and Callum sit together on a beach. They are in love. It is forbidden.

Sephy is a Cross and Callum is a Nought. Between Noughts and Crosses there are racial and social divides. A segregated society teeters on a volatile knife edge.  As violence breaks out, Sephy and Callum draw closer, but this is a romance that will lead them into terrible danger. This gripping Romeo and Juliet story by acclaimed writer Malorie Blackman is a captivating drama of love, revolution and what it means to grow up in a divided world.

To find out more about the current tour of ‘Noughts and Crosses’ do visit - https://pilot-theatre.com/production/noughts-crosses/

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RNIB Scotland has produced it’s Manifesto, which will be shared with political parties, ahead of the Scottish Parliamentary elections on May 7th.
 
RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Catriona Burness, from RNIB Scotland, to find out why charities do this and how they promote the asks to the political parties and candidates.
 
For more info on RNIB Scotland, go to www.rnib.org.uk/scotland

#RNIBConnect

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Now for the next in our regular slots here on RNIB Connect Radio highlighting what is on offer at the National Theatre in London for blind and partially sighted people with audio description.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined again by David Bellwood, Head of Access at the National Theatre to chat about a few up-coming audio described shows at the NT and a couple that are available online with audio description via ntathome.com

Audio described performances included: 

‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses,’ - Saturday 25 April, 1.30pm, touch tour 11.30am and Thursday 14 May, 7pm, touch tour 5pm, National Theatre’s Lyttelton Theatre

‘War Horse’, Saturday 20 June, 2.15pm, touch tour 12:15pm, Friday 24 July 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, National Theatre’s Olivier Theatre,

‘The Misanthrope’, Saturday 11 July, 2.30pm, touch tour at 12.30pm, Friday 31 July 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, National Theatre’s Lyttelton Theatre.

From NT at home with audio description David recommended ‘The importance of being Ernest’ and The Other Place’ . 

To find out more about the National Theatre’s audio description offer and services for blind and partially sighted people do either call the NT on 020 7452 3961 or visit the NT website- https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

And for more about NT at home and to view many theatre productions online with audio description do visit - https://www.ntathome.com

(Image shows National Theatre logo, A capital N and T in black against a white background)

A new voting tool has been created to help blind and partially sighted people, in Scotland, cast their votes independently and in secret.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Catriona Burness, from RNIB Scotland, to learn more about the new changes for the forthcoming 2026 elections.

For more on the improvements, go to www.rnib.org.uk/scotland

#RNIBConnect
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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about visiting services in Surrey, accessible voting and what it’s like having a Lived Experience coach.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999
Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect
 
Image shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

Following a year long trial, blind and partially sighted rail passengers in Scotland with the eye plus one national entitlement card can travel with a companion at no extra cost. David Hogg finds out more…

The critically acclaimed theatre show ‘The City for Incurable Women’ by International theatre-collective fish in a dress will be ending it’s tour at Home In Manchester on Saturday 4 April at 7.45pm with integrated audio description as part of the performance making the show accessible to blind and partially sighted people.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Helena McBurney, co-founder of the International theatre-collective fish in a dress to find out more about ‘The City for Incurable Women’  and how the play has been made accessible to everyone too.

To find out more about fish in a dress do search for them on Instagram and for more about the performance of ‘The City for Incurable Women’ at Home in Manchester on Saturday 4 April at 7.45pm do visit - https://homemcr.org/whats-on/the-city-for-incurable-women-ttyc
 

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Take your family on a magical adventure through the interactive Fairytales exhibition at the British Library until 23 August 2026 which has been made accessible to young blind and partially sighted people and their families too.  

Explore enchanted lands, magical creatures, iconic characters and timeless tales, brought to life through books, theatre costumes, puppets, pop-ups, artwork and illustrations.   

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Rebecca Campbell-Gay, one of the Curators of the Fairytales exhibition to find out how the stories of many of those classic fairytales have been brought to life within the exhibition and how the British Library have been working with the RNIB to make the exhibition as accessible as possible to young blind and partially sighted people. 

For more about the Fairytales exhibition at the British Library which is on until 23 August 2026 do visit - https://events.bl.uk/exhibitions/fairy-tales 

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RNIB Scotland is running their Getting Back Out There Project, an initiative aiming to provide more advise and a support to blind and partially sighted people living in rural areas of Scotland, where these services are hard to reach and limited.

RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina spoke with dad Kevin Byron and his son James, to find out why more support is needed in rural areas like Tarbert, Argyll and Bute.

Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week Vidar and Toby chat about the 10th anniversary of Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes as the 20226 tour visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describer Caroline Burn.

About Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes 

The double Olivier Award-winning smash hit returns

A timeless fairytale and Academy Award-winning movie, The Red Shoes has captivated audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its powerful tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. 

Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a fierce struggle between the two men who inspire her passion.

Matthew Bourne’s magical double Olivier Award-winning production of the legendary Powell and Pressburger film is set to a score orchestrated by Terry Davies, featuring the mesmerising music of golden-age Hollywood composer Bernard Herrmann, with sumptuous designs by Lez Brotherston (set and costumes), Paule Constable (lighting) and Paul Groothuis (sound).

An intoxicating drama where life imitates art with fateful consequences, The Red Shoes will dazzle your senses and break your heart.

For more about Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes and the 2026 tour do visit the following pages of his company website - https://www.new-adventures.net/the-red-shoes#overview 

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Each week, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about attending the Anthropy conference in Cornwall which brings CEOs from across the charitable, social justice and social care sectors together to discuss ways of creating a more united society plus the cane walk and handing in of the Life on Pause petition to Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, which happened on Tuesday calling for action to be taken on Vision Rehabilitation Services so that blind and partially sighted people’s lives are not put on pause.  

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk
You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999
Or ask your Amazon smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.
#RNIBConnect

Image shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell is joined by some of RNIB Northern Ireland’s Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they’re working on.

This month’s topics include a recent Stormont event and work on a Disability Strategy.

If you’d like to find out more, or get involved in campaigning, email campaignsni@rnib.org.uk

#RNIBConnect

Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font. 

Take your family on a magical adventure through the interactive Fairytales exhibition at the British Library until 23 August 2026 which has been made accessible to young blind and partially sighted people and their families too.  

Explore enchanted lands, magical creatures, iconic characters and timeless tales, brought to life through books, theatre costumes, puppets, pop-ups, artwork and illustrations.   

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Rebecca Campbell-Gay, one of the Curators of the Fairytales exhibition to find out how the stories of many of those classic fairytales have been brought to life within the exhibition and how the British Library have been working with the RNIB to make the exhibition as accessible as possible to young blind and partially sighted people. 

For more about the Fairytales exhibition at the British Library which is on until 23 August 2026 do visit - https://events.bl.uk/exhibitions/fairy-tales 

(Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font)

On Tuesday 24 March 2026 a number of blind and partially sighted people took part in a RNIB cane walk from Parliament Square in central London to the Department of Health and Social Care to hand in the RNIB Life on Pause petition, made up of over 48,000 signatures, calling on Wes Streeting, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, to take action on Vision Rehabilitation Services to ensure that blind and partially sighted people get the right support when they need it and not to have their lives put on pause.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was there for the cane walk and, after the handing in of the Life on Pause petition, caught up with Rob Sears - Athlete and Content Creator, Claire Sisk - RNIB Ambassador, Content Creator and Radio Broadcaster plus Mike Wordingham - RNIB’s Head of Policy to find out why it is so important for Wes Streeting the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care to take action on Vision Rehabilitation Services and what it was like for Rob and Claire taking part in the cain walk, handing in the Life on Pause petition and their own personal experiences of vision rehabilitation services.

To find out more about the Life on Pause petition which is part of the RNIB Out of Sight Campaign and ways of getting involved in this and other RNIB Campaign work do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/

Image shows blind and partially sighted people and RNIB campaigners holding long canes stood in front of Parliament Square with Big Ben in the background. From left to right are Charmaine Ashpole, Rob Sears, Claire Sisk, Mike Wordingham, Geoff Smith, Tom Skelton and Frankie Brady.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week we have a gripping examination of nation and the beautiful game, football as the current tour of the National Theatre’s Olivier Award-winning smash hit ‘Dear England’ visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describer Caroline Burn. 

About ‘Dear England’

The National Theatre’s Olivier Award-winning smash hit ‘Dear England is on a highly anticipated tour.

It’s time to change the game. The country that gave the world football has since delivered a painful pattern of loss. The England men’s team has the worst track record for penalties in the world, and manager Gareth Southgate knows he needs to open his mind and face up to the years of hurt to take team and country back to the promised land.

Football and non-football fans alike will be brought to their feet in this joyous, five-star ‘new stage epic’ (Telegraph). 

From multi award-winning writer James Graham (Sherwood, BBC) and director Rupert Goold (Patriots, Cold War), Dear England tells the inspiring, at times heart-breaking, and ultimately uplifting story of Gareth Southgate’s revolutionary tenure as England manager.

David Sturzaker (Doctors, BBC) plays former England manager Gareth Southgate in this gripping examination of nation and game. He is joined by stage and screen actress Samantha Womack (Eastenders, BBC; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) as team psychologist Pippa Grange.

For more about the current tour of ‘Dear England’ do visit - https://dearenglandonstage.com

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UK sight loss charity has responded to the latest Covid Inquiry publication, Module 3.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Sophie Dudgeon, from the charity, to get their take on the publication.

If you’d like to read more about the response, go to www.rnib.org.uk or look at our video at www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/covid-19-inquiry/
#RNIBConnect

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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about volunteering and fundraising.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

Image shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

RNIB Scotland recently marked a milestone with it’s Swap With Me public transport project.

Allan Russell was there and spoke with representatives from Lothian Buses. 

Image shows a large group of people posing outside in front of a Lothian Bus. It's a mixture of men and women of all ages, with a couple guide dogs mixed in. It's an overcast but nice day in Edinburgh and everyone is smiling.

RNIB Scotland recently marked a milestone with it’s Swap With Me public transport project.

Allan Russell was there and spoke with Shaun and Stevie from McGill's Buses.

Image shows bus drivers from McGill's Buses and Lothian Buses laughing and posing for a photo with RNIB Scotland's Campaigns Officer Eileen.

RNIB Scotland recently marked a milestone with it’s Swap With Me public transport project.

Allan Russell was there and spoke with Katie and Nick from Edinburgh Trams.  

Image shows a cake in the shape of a bus. It's white and pink with a "Swap With Me" poster on the side and number 100 on the front with a yellow "RNIB" license plate.

RNIB Scotland recently marked a milestone with it’s Swap With Me public transport project.

Allan Russell has been hearing about the hugely successful events from RNIB Scotland's Campaign Officer Eileen Clarkson. 

Image shows Eileen (on the right) joined with two RNIB Scotland volunteers for cake cutting. The cake is shaped like a white and pink bus.

Campaigners in Northern Ireland are aiming to expand concessionary transport for a wider range of blind and partially sighted people.

Amelia learned more from Julianne Crothers who shares why the cause is so important to her.

Image shows the RNIB Connect Radio logo. On a white background ‘RNIB’ written in bold black capital letters and underline with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font. 

Barry Snell joins director Josh Feder to go behind the lens of RNIB’s latest legacy advert. They discuss his creative process, career, and the power of collaborating with the sight-loss community.

You can watch the advert here: Because life doesn’t stop with sight loss. | 60 seconds, landscape | RNIB

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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about visits to UK political parties and The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999
Or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

Image shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

Let’s find out more about RNIB’s Helpline and Customer Care Team as our David Hogg speaks with Kyle Ferrier.

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week we have Chichester Festival Theatre’s touring production of ‘Top Hat’ as it visited the Birmingham Hippodrome theatre with description by Professional Audio Describers Nadine Beasley and Jonathan Nash. .

About ‘Top Hat’

Based on the classic 1935 movie starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Top Hat is a sparkling romantic cocktail laced with witty comedy, stunning choreography and tap-dancing brilliance, brought to life on stage with lavish sets and gorgeous costumes.

Irving Berlin’s irresistible score includes some of Hollywood’s greatest songs, the immortal Cheek to Cheek, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, Top Hat White Tie and Tails and Puttin’ on

the Ritz.

When Broadway star Jerry Travers arrives in London to open a new show, he crosses paths with model Dale Tremont whose beauty sleep is rudely interrupted by Jerry tap dancing in the hotel suite above hers. Instantly smitten, Jerry vows to abandon his bachelor life to win her – but the path of true love never does run smooth.

Put on your top hat, brush off your tails and let this joyous romantic musical comedy sweep you off your feet!

For more about Chichester Festival Theatre’s touring production of ‘Top Hat’ do visit - https://www.tophat-musical.com/tour-dates

For the RNIB Out of Sight campaign and the Life On Pause petition RNIB Ambassador, content creator and Radio Broadcaster Claire Sisk plus Celebrity Chef, Presenter and Podcaster Briony May Williams came together to film a baking session at PaperMill Studios in London to support the campaign and to encourage people to sign the petition which is all about the importance of Vision Rehabilitation Services ensuring blind and partially sighted people get the support they need when they need it.

Claire and Briony began by telling RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about what they baked together for the video shoot, then to Claire explaining how important Vision Rehabilitation services were for her when she started to lose her sight, plus highlighting some of the gadgets Claire uses when baking and cooking and finally why the Out of Sight campaign and the Life on Pause petition is so important to ensure blind and partially sighted people get the right support they need when they need it.

To find out more about the RNIB Out of Sight campaign and to sign the Life on Pause petition do visit - https://www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/support-a-campaign/out-of-sight/

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about his visit to Wales and RNIB’s Swap With Me bus travel work.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

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Looking for an uplifting watch? Amelia and Hubert are here with a warm and comforting recommendation. 

You can watch The Golden Spurtle with AD on Apple TV +

Image shows "The Golden Spurtle" poster. A cartoonised poster showing an array of intriguing characters. A man in a sharp suit sits at a centre tartan podium with a banner which reads: "World Porridge Championship." He's enjoying a glowing bowl of porridge. Behind him 6 characters, from left to right a tall serious man fills a pot with oats, a younger man eats his porridge, an grey-haired lady waves a Scottish flag, a chef scribbles down his rating on a note pad, a female chef with an apron throws a towel over her shoulder, finally a man with a moustache proudly holds up a red bowl of porridge.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This time we have the arrival of the Percy Jackson universe to the Birmingham Hippodrome with ‘The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical’ following on from Rick Riordan’s best-selling novels, the two movies and the Disney TV series too with description by Professional Audio Describer Caroline Burn.

About ‘The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical’

When 16-year-old Percy Jackson discovers that he is the half-blood son of the Greek God, Poseidon, his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined.

With newly-discovered powers he can’t control, a destiny he doesn’t want and a whole mythology textbook’s worth of mythical monsters on his tail, Percy must learn what it means to be a hero.

The future of the world hangs in the balance as Percy and his friends embark on an epic adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat.

Over the past 20 years, Percy Jackson has become a worldwide phenomenon. First there was the best-selling series of books, then two incredible films and a Disney TV series. Now the adventures of Percy Jackson will burst onto the stage at Birmingham Hippodrome. It’s the perfect adventure for gods and mortals of all ages with a gripping story that shows that ‘normal’ really is a myth!

To find out more about ‘The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical’ do visit - https://percyjacksonmusical.com

March is here which means another monthly almanac from Amelia. Here are some celebrations and birdsongs to look forward to…

P.S. Don’t forget the clocks go forward on Sunday the 29th March too!

Learn more about the nature you can enjoy all year round on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation Charity

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Tech Talk is one of RNIB Connect Radio’s most popular shows and podcasts.

As the team celebrate the milestone of their 200th show

Presenter Callum Stoneman spoke to Allan Russell about it’s popularity, his favourite tech and what’s on the 200th episode.

Listen to Tech Talk on Tuesday’s at 1pm, catch up on Thursday’s at 9pm or Saturday’s at 5pm.

You can also podcast the shows by searching your favourite podcast provider for RNIB Tech Talk.

#RNIBConnect
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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about the charity’s ECLO service and RNIB Bookshare.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk 

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This time we have Birmingham Royal Ballet’s revival of Director Carlos Acosta’s 2022 production of ‘Don Quixote’ at the Birmingham Hippodrome described by Professional Audio Describers Julia Grundy and Jonathan Nash.

About ‘Don Quixote’

In this first revival of his 2022 production Director Carlos Acosta delivers entertainment for all ages. Don Quixote introduces us to Cervantes’ famous knight himself, lovers Kitri and Basilio, and a host of supporting characters. As the Don sets out on a quest to track down his true love, with his loyal friend and servant Sancho Panza at his side, he finds himself embroiled in an unlikely adventure of love and dreams.

If you like Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty, you shouldn’t miss this stunning 19th-century masterpiece, full of thrilling pas de deux, delightful music played by the Royal Ballet Sinfonia, and much, much more!

https://www.brb.org.uk/shows/don-quixote-202

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell talks with Anne Hornsby from MindsEye Description to look at some forthcoming events with Audio Description.

AD makes television, movies, galleries  and other arts events more inclusive, accessible and enjoyable for blind and partially sighted people.

This month they’re looking at Mean Girls, Here And Now and an exhibition at the Lowry.

If you'd like more information on audio described events, go to www.mindseyedescription.co.uk

#RNIBConnect
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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about the RNIB’s Eye Care Liaison Officers and the power of Audio Description.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.
#RNIBConnect

Image shows Simon smiling for the camera. He is a white man with neat, short fair hair, dressed in a white shirt and charcoal suit jacket.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This time we have a contemporary dance piece where fearless dancers summon a whirlwind of myth and magic to traditional Irish music with Dance Consortium ’MÁM’ at the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describer Caroline Burn.

About ‘MÁM’

MÁM is international dance-theatre at its finest. Described as ‘80 minutes of ritualised ecstasy’ by The Irish Times, this visionary piece playfully and provocatively takes you on an otherworldly journey steeped in the landscape and culture of West Kerry in Ireland.

MÁM sees 12 fearless dancers summon a whirlwind of myth and magic, moved by the collaborative music making of virtuoso Irish traditional concertina player Cormac Begley and European classical contemporary collective s t a r g a z e, performed live on stage.

Nominated for an Olivier Award, MÁM has enjoyed sell-out performances at Sadler’s Wells, London and across Festivals world-wide. This rapturous production is now on its debut UK tour for Dance Consortium.

For more about the tour of Dance Consortium ‘MÁM’ do visit - https://danceconsortium.com

We know how difficult it can be for blind and partially sighted people to get that first run on the career ladder or come back into work after a break. Well one way the RNIB is helping visually impaired people to take that first step into employment or return to work is through the RNIB See Work Differently Work placement scheme.

These are paid placements for a fixed term of twelve weeks and are generally for fourteen hours per week

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Brian Murry who is currently on placement as an RNIB Community Social Action Assistant and Elaine Manson, RNIB Northern Island, Community Social Action Manager who is supporting Brian during his placement to find out what the See Work Differently Work Placement scheme is all about, why Brian wanted to apply for a placement, how things have been so far for him plus Elaine outlining what the benefits are to organisations like the RNIB and others on offering work placement places for visually impaired people.

To find out more about the RNIB See Work Differently Work Placement scheme do visit the following pages of the RNIB website - https://www.rnib.org.uk/living-with-sight-loss/equality-and-employment/see-work-differently-placement-programme/

New placements will appear from time to time on the careers pages of the RNIB website too.

The Forth Valley Sensory Centre in Falkirk, provides a wide range of services for people with varying degrees of sensory loss.

The purpose built centre is about to reach a Milestone Anniversary, with great plans to celebrate. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Jacquie Winning MBE and Laura Cluxton, from Forth Valley Sensory Centre, to find out more.

For more info on the centre, go to www.forthvalleysensorycentre.org or call 01324590888

#RNIBConnect

@Allan_insight @FVSensoryCentre @RNIBScotland #Blind #PartiallySighted

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RNIB Cymru has published it’s Manifesto ahead of the forthcoming Welsh Elections, outlining how parties can help improve the lives of blind and partially sighted people in Wales.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Liz Williams, from RNIB Cymru, to hear more about the asks…

If you’d like more info on services in Wales, or would like to see the Manifesto, go to www.rnib.org.uk/cymru

#RNIBConnect

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Folk and Roots presenter Aly prince has now been volunteering with RNIB and making his weekly music programme for 10 years. 

An incredible milestone. Barry Snell caught up with him to chat about his time presenting and volunteering with the UK's leading sight loss charity - RNIB.

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Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell is joined by some of RNIB Northern Ireland’s Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they’re working on.

This month’s topics include Active Travel, Disability Strategy and accessible voting. 

If you’d like to find out more, or get involved in campaigning, email campaignsni@rnib.org.uk

#RNIBConnect

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Following on from the great success of the first Lived Experience Leadership Conference which brought many blind and partially sighted people together to shape stronger leadership within the sight loss sector from people with first hand lived experience of sight loss the conference is back for 2026. 

The Lived Experience Leadership Conference 2026: Resilience Reimagined takes place from 25 to 26 March 2026 at Conference Aston in Birmingham.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by David Aldwinckle, RNIB’s Director of Insight for a look back on the first Lived Experience Leadership conference went and an overview of what will be happening during this year’s conference too.

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This time we have a very powerful play with ‘Please Do Not Touch’ in the Patrick studio at the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Burn.

About ‘Please Do Not Touch’

“They will tell you that legal and illegal are the same as right and wrong. And I’ve told you that you only have to sit still for a moment and watch the pieces move to see what a lie that is.”

Mason is an activist who explores historic houses on TikTok to uncover the true stories behind the objects that lie within. After an incident with a Somali Afro comb, he is wrongly imprisoned in a Young Offender Institution. Can he find a way to survive this ordeal and navigate how to keep speaking up when everything is designed to silence him?

Written by former Birmingham Poet Laureate Casey Bailey and directed by award-winning theatre maker, Gail Babb – ‘Please Do Not Touch’ asks important questions about colonial legacy and contested heritage whilst shining a light on the criminal justice system.

For more about ‘Please Do Not Touch’ do visit China Plate Theatre Company’s website - https://chinaplatetheatre.com/whats-on/current/please-do-not-touch/

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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Back to RNIB NI Tech Fair where Chair of Trustees at RNIB, Anna Tylor, shared some highlights from the day, why she loves audiobooks and a recommendation.

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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

VI student Georgia is using her thesis to learn how educational professionals can better support future VI students.

Amelia spoke to her to learn more and also find out who can participate in her work.

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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Amelia caught up with RNIB NI’s Laura Cummings for her reflections on the day.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Amelia speaks to NaviLens about their work in NI, the different applications for Navilens and how they keep user’s data safe.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Now Amelia speaks to well-known local Shirley about what the day has offered her and her brother, and her desire for payment plans for accessible tech and a local hub.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

What is the My Care and how is it making health information more accessible for people in Northern Ireland?

Amelia spoke to the app team to learn more.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Richard Moore is back again to tell Amelia about being the CEO of a charity and why he loves volunteering for radio.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Richard Moore talks to Amelia at the NI Tech Fair now about the tech that makes a difference to his everyday life.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Ruairí McHugh, The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, visited the RNIB NI Tech Fair, here’s Amelia speaking about life for blind and partially sighted people in the city.
 
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Ahead of the first performance of '(We Indulge In) A Bit Of Roll Play' we gathered some of the team for a candid talk about Sexuality, Disability and showing this on stage.

Join Amelia in conversation with blind Counsellor and Disability Consultant Sally Clay, Intimacy Co-ordinator Vanessa Cofey, and Audio Describer Emma-Jane McHenry as they discuss how they're worked together.

Catch (We Induge In) A Bit Of Roll Play at Glasgow's Tramway on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 February at 7.30pm, or Saturday 21 February at 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Learn more on the Tramway Website - Birds of Paradise Theatre Company - (We indulge in) a bit of roll play

RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Our Amelia was there and caught up with tech volunteer Jason about why he enjoys volunteering for RNIB.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Our Amelia Hilton was there and spoke to local sight loss organisation, Angel Eyes, about how they support young people.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Our Amelia was there and caught up with Tech Talk host Jackie Brown about what she’s excited about in the day ahead.
 
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RNIB Northern Ireland Technology Fair 2026 took place on Wednesday 11th of February at the Foyle Arena in Derry/Londonderry.

Our Amelia was there and spoke with RNIB Northern Ireland Director Robert Shilladay to learn more about the day’s offerings and key areas they are focussing on.
 
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Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon talks about accessible voting, Access To Work and RNIB Talking Books 90th anniversary.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk 

You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

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Join Jonathan in the glamorous Porto Montegro and old city of Kotor.

Listen to Jonathan's Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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RNIB is creating opportunities for blind and partially sighted people to gain practical experience. Hywel Davies caught up with Mohammed and Sharon to share their experiences of the ‘See Work Differently’ scheme.

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The Royal Ballet and Opera House in London continue their access programme with up-coming audio described performances and touch tours for blind and partially sighted people of the Royal Ballet’s revival of Glen Tetley’s 60’s cult classic Pierrot Lunaire.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Deirdre Chapman, Rehearsal Director at The Royal Ballet and Audio Describer Alice Gilmour for some background to the revival of Pierrot Lunaire and how this classic work of dance that blends both modern and classical ballet set to Schoenberg slightly challenging score is being brought to life on stage with description for visually impaired people.

There are three audio described performances of Pierrot Lunaire on Wednesday 11, Thursday 12 and Tuesday 17 February all at 7.45pm with a touch tour prior to the performance on Thursday 12 February at 6.45pm and the performance on Tuesday 17 February is also a relaxed performance too. 

To book your tickets for the audio described performances of Pierrot Lunaire do either email boxoffice@roh.org.uk or telephone the Box Office on 020 7304 4000.  

Do be aware that if you look for tickets for the dates of the audio described performances online the website might indicate that the performances are fully booked out as currently the booking system does not show the allocated seats set aside for blind and partially sighted people.  

For more about access at The Royal Ballet and Opera House do visit - 
https://www.rbo.org.uk/visit/access-at-rbo

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The Eye Believe Podcast is a collective of blind and partially sighted individuals from different cultural backgrounds coming together to discuss and share their unique experiences of sight loss on a range of powerful topics from their own personal perspectives along with how the community around them sees them as visually impaired people.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Ashrafia Choudhury, the founder of Eye Believe, to find out more about how Eye Believe came about and the set up of the podcast, some examples of the topics that have been covered in the podcast, what Ashrafia would like people to come away with after catching the Eye Believe Podcast on RNIB Connect Radio and how the podcast has helped to change attitudes to sight loss within her community too. 

The first episode of the Eye Believe Podcast will be broadcast on RNIB Connect Radio on Tuesday 17 February at 7pm, repeated Saturday 21 February at 8pm with future episodes going out on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7pm and repeated on the 3rd Saturday of the month at 8pm.

You can subscribe to the Eye Believe Podcast by searching for ‘Eye Believe BlindPod’ on Spotify, follow EyeBeleiveBlindPod on Instagram and to reach Ashrafia and the rest of the collective behind the podcast do email eyebelieve12@gmail.com.   

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RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Simon Antrobus, CEO of RNIB, for a look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.

This week Simon chats settling into his new position as RNIB Chief Executive, engaging with RNIB staff, and what work he'll focus on over the coming months.

If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.uk

You can also call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or ask your Amazon smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.

#RNIBConnect

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre review.

This week we are looking at what might be someones first experience of theatre with two great family shows, Robin Hood at the Birmingham Hippodrome and Aladdin at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre to find out how a pantomime comes to live with AD for an accessible experience that can be shared with the whole family too.

About Robin Hood - 

The ultimate sheriff-busting pantomime extravaganza.

Join TV fashionista, DJ and radio star Gok Wan as Gok Scarlet, Birmingham panto favourite Matt Slack as Robin Hood, Faye Tozer as Maid Marion and Matt Cardle as the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham. The all star line-up is completed by Andrew Ryan as Henrietta Hood, Sandra Marvin as The Spirit of Sherwood, and pantomime royalty Christopher Biggins who makes a special appearance as King Richard.

With stunning scenery and dazzling costumes direct from The London Palladium, Robin Hood promises all the ingredients of a perfect pantomime: laugh-out-loud comedy, bundles of audience participation, astonishing special effects, and plenty of boos and hisses for the whole family to enjoy.

About Aladdin - 

Join Aladdin on a spectacular quest from humble beginnings to riches beyond his wildest dreams! With a magical lamp, the help of a trusty genie and three wishes, only he can take on the evil sorcerer Abanazar! Can he conquer the cave of wonders and who will win the heart of the princess in the most spellbinding battle of good versus evil!?

Join West End leading lady Zoe Birkett (Pop Idol/Moulin Rouge The Musical/The Bodyguard) as Spirit of the Ring, Michael Greco (EastEnders/The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes) as the evil Abanazar and CBeebies’ Ben Cajee as Aladdin in the ultimate pantomime adventure for all the family!

Returning favourites Tam Ryan (Wishee Washee) and Ian Adams (Widow Twankey) are joined by Wolverhampton’s own Sofie Anné as Princess Jasmine, West End star Duane Gooden as the Genie and panto legend Ian Billings as The Notary!

Bees are buzzing and Grey Herons are with us! Amelia returns to explore the many celebrations in February and share some returning friends from nature.

Learn more about the nature you can enjoy each month on the RSPB website - RSPB Bird & Wildlife Conservation Charity 

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Two students from Canada are working on a device that can detect scaffolding and tree branches to make travelling easier for blind and partially sighted people.

Amelia spoke to Jack Redberger and Jay Koidhis to learn more.

Email Jack and Jay at proximitypal@itas.ca

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Based in Northern Ireland and looking for a social, tech-themed day? The RNIB tech fair is free to attend and takes place in Londonderry on Wednesday 11th of February.

Amelia spoke with Jo Kenny to learn more.

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Jack Marshall, a blind man from Stoke-on-Trent who has moderate hearing loss has recently picked up his degree certificate in Computer Science and Music Production at Keele University’s winter graduation ceremony and hopes that his story of going through mainstream and specialist education will help to inspire other blind and partially sighted people to achieve their goals in life. 

When Jack was born he was diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity and also has some moderate hearing loss too. He went through mainstream education up to A-levels, then went on to the Royal National College for the Blind, where he got into computers and music which encouraged him to go on to Keele University to study Computer Science and Music Production.

Jack explains to RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about how he wants to use his story and experiences of going through education and graduating with his degree to encourage other blind and partially sighted people to not let barriers get in the way of achieving their goals in life whatever that might be.

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Join Jonathan Abro on a memorable river jouney and beachfront hotel stay in Monetenegro.

Listen to Jonathan's Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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‘Your Stories’ brings together objects from Glasgow Life Museum’s collection with personal stories from community curators. Community members from RNIB Scotland came together to select items that resonated with them and shaped the final display by sharing their own experiences, memories and perspectives alongside the objects.

Amelia spoke to community curator Krishna about how radio and audiobooks ehance his life.

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‘Your Stories’ brings together objects from Glasgow Life Museum’s collection with personal stories from community curators. Community members from RNIB Scotland came together to select items that resonated with them and shaped the final display by sharing their own experiences, memories and perspectives alongside the objects.

Amelia spoke to community curator Terry about which objects were meaningful for him.

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‘Your Stories’ brings together objects from Glasgow Life Museum’s collection with personal stories from community curators. Community members from RNIB Scotland came together to select items that resonated with them and shaped the final display by sharing their own experiences, memories and perspectives alongside the objects.

Amelia spoke to RNIB Community Coordinator, Conor Joseph and Head of Glasgow Life Museums & Collections, Jane Rowlands to learn more about their collaboration.

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RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell learns how RNIB is creating opportunities for blind and partially sighted people to gain some work experience. 

He spoke with RNIB's Nigel Townley and Devin Adams to learn how the work placement in Edinburgh is helping her build confidence.

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Now for the next in our regular slots here on RNIB Connect Radio highlighting what is on offer at the National Theatre in London for blind and partially sighted people with audio description.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined again by David Bellwood, Head of Access at the National Theatre to chat about a few up-coming audio described shows at the NT and a couple that are available online with audio description via NT at home.

Audio described performances included: 

‘The Playboy of the Western World’ Friday 20 February, 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, National’s Littleton Theatre.

‘Man and Boy’ Saturday 28 February 1.30pm, touch tour 11.30am, National’s Dorfman Theatre.

‘Summer Folk’ Saturday 4 April 2pm, touch tour 12noon and Monday 20 April 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, National’s Olivier Theatre.

From NT at home with audio description David recommended ‘The Land of the Living’ and ‘A Tupperware of Ashes’.

To find out more about the National Theatre’s audio description offer and services for blind and partially sighted people do either call the NT on 020 7452 3961 or visit the NT website - https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

And for more about NT at home and to view many theatre productions online with audio description do visit - https://www.ntathome.com

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for another audio described theatre reviews.

This week we have the spectacular musical ‘Miss Saigon’ as the current new UK and Ireland touring production visited the Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham with description by Professional Audio Describer.

Join Jonathan Abro as he crosses from Albania into Montenegro and makes some suprise friends.

Listen to Jonathan's Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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An update on the VocalEyes Describing Heritage: Co-creating Access Project, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund with the input of blind and partially sighted people from a number of Thomas Pocklington Trust Sight Loss Councils, will explore through the co-creation of audio description in 10 heritage hubs across the country, ways of improving access to museums, galleries and heritage sites for visually impaired people.

Now that the 10 museum hubs for the project have been confirmed with workshops at the hubs due to start in March RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Lindsay Bywood, VocalEyes Describing Heritage Project manager for an update on the project, a run down of the 10 museum hubs that have been confirmed, news about the up-coming workshops plus how blind and partially sighted people will be very much at the heart of the project and co-creating the audio descriptions.

To find out more about the Describing Heritage project and more on audio description of the arts do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk

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RNIB hosted a sector roundtable last week with Schools Minister Georgia Gould MP where blind and partially sighted people got the chance to highlight issues in terms of support for special educational needs. 

Following the event, Hubert spoke to Lucy Merritt from Thomas Pocklington Trust to find out more about a framework which is in place to help provide an understanding of support for children and young people with vision impairment. 

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RNIB hosted a sector roundtable last week with Schools Minister Georgia Gould MP where blind and partially sighted people got the chance to highlight issues in terms of support for special educational needs. 

Our Hubert attended the event at RNIB's Grimaldi Building and spoke to some of the young people who provided their lived experience of education support with sight loss.

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RNIB hosted a sector roundtable last week with Schools Minister Georgia Gould OBE MP where blind and partially sighted people got the chance to highlight issues in terms of support for special educational needs. 

Following the event, Hubert managed to catch up with the Schools Minister.

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands for the first of his regular audio described theatre reviews for 2025.

This week we have Tom Wells’ magical new adaptation of Roald Dahl’s powerful and darkly funny story ‘the BFG’ (Big Friendly Giant) at the RSC (Royal Shakespeare Company) with description by Professional Audio Describers Gethyn Edwards and Ellie Packer.  

About ‘The BFG'

One extraordinary night, a young orphan named Sophie is snatched by a giant and taken far away to Giant Country.

There she learns that human-eating giants are guzzling 'norphans' the world over. But she soon discovers that her new friend, the BFG, is different – he's a dream-catching, snozzcumber-munching gentle soul who refuses to eat humans.

While other giants wreak havoc on the world, the BFG ignites Sophie's imagination, and they devise a daring plan to save children everywhere. In the end, the smallest human bean and the gentlest giant prove that a dream can change the world.

Gather your chiddlers to see Roald Dahl’s powerful and darkly funny story, packed full of frobscottle and whizzpoppers. Tom Wells’ magical new adaptation is directed by RSC Co-Artistic Director Daniel Evans, whose previous productions include Quiz, South Pacific and Our Generation.

There will be a further audio described performance of ‘The BFG’ on Wednesday 28 January at 7.15pm. 

For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details about audio described performances of their productions do visit - https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access

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RNIB Scotland is back with their popular accessible explorations of Glasgow museums. 

Our Paulina Kuchorew spoke with Community Coordinator, Conor Joseph, about their plans for this year and their upcoming visit to Riverside Museum.

Visually Impaired comedian Jake Donaldson has a new show about nostalgia, sight loss and his boyhood dream of joining the band Weezer.

Amelia learned more about the show ahead of the Glasgow International Comedy Festival.

Book Tickets for the Glasgow International COmedy Festival date at 9 pm on Friday 13th March here - Jake Donaldson: The Fifth Weezer - Glasgow International Comedy Festival

Learn more about Jake on his website - Jake Donaldson Comedy - Listen on YouTube, Spotify - Linktree

Let’s talk gaming and how you can get involved in accessible gaming with other blind and partially sighted people. David Hogg has more.

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Simon Antrobus is the new Chief Executive of UK sight loss charity, RNIB.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell sat down with Simon to learn more about his career, so far, his thoughts on the charity’s direction and how he switches off from the day job.

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RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined again by Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the channel Islands for a look back over some great theatre shows he saw in 2025 with audio description as well as some highlights of productions that Vidar is looking forward to seeing in 2026.

Don’t forget to catch Vidar’s regular audio described theatre reviews on RNIB Connect Radio or via this podcast channel. 

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Join Jonathan as he continues exploring the Balkans by bus, stopping at the modern city of Shkodër.

He learns more about the community came together after a dark period of history.

Listen to Jonathan's Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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The Motability Foundation and UK sight loss charity RNIB, are collaborating on several research projects to improve the independent mobility of blind and partially sighted people.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to John Worsfold, RNIB, and Nicola Gampell, Motability Foundation, to learn more about the work and it’s goals.

If you’d like to learn more about the research, go to www.rnib.org.uk/motability-foundation or www.future-journeys.com

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Join Jonathan as he begins his bus journey through the Balkans.

Listen to more Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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How can you reconnect with the people you care about? 

VI Counsellor Sally Clay spoke to Amelia about reasons distance can happen and ways you can come back together.

Listen to Good Company on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 7pm and 1st Sunday of each month at 8pm.

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Inclusive Farm offers opportunities for people with disability and difference to gain skills in Agriculture.

Amelia spoke to blind farmer and CEO, Mike Duxbury, for an update on their Aberdeenshire farm and their plans for 2026.

Learn more on the Inclusive Farm website - Inclusive Farm | Cultivating Ideas for Growth

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Army veteran Clive Jones has recently become an MBE. He shares his story with David Hogg and what it was like to receive the honour.

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Join Jonathan as he continues exploring the Balkans by bus, taking a chaotic journey to the 'city of windows' and exploring impactful museums.

Listen to Jonathan's Travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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The government has announced a new NHS online hospital service is being launched in England next year. It will focus on nine health conditions, including glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Amelia spoke to RNIB Head of Policy, Mike Wordingham, to learn about what this means for blind and partially sighted people in England.

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Learn more on the NHS England website - NHS England » Menopause and prostate conditions prioritised for NHS’s new online hospital

Researchers in Jordan are exploring health-related wellbeing and sleep quality among visually impaired people.

Amelia spoke to one of the researchers, Dr.Hisham Jammal, to learn what they discovered and how it will impact support for blind and partially sighted people.

Read 'Jammal, H. M., Khader, Y., Kanaan, S. F., Al-Dwairi, R., Mohidat, H., Al-Omari, R., … Al Bdour, M. The Effect of Visual Impairment and Its Severity on Vision-Related and Health-Related Quality of Life in Jordan: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare (2023).' here - https://doi.org/10.2147/JMDH.S431159

Read 'Jammal, H.M., Khader, Y., Almhdawi, K. et al. Association between visual impairment and sleep quality: A cross-sectional, comparative study of severity, eye conditions, and risk factors. Eye (2025)' here - https://doi.org/10.1038/s41433-025-04150-0

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Join globe-trotter Jonathan Abro as he reflects on some of his most memorable journeys around the world. Through great music picks and conversation with Amelia Hilton, he shares joyful, moving and exhilarating stories from his travels.

The music in this podcast has been shortened from the original broadcast for rights reasons.

Listen to Jonathan's travelogues every Wednesday on The Lunch Break with Hubert Pawelkiewicz from 12 noon to 1 pm.

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