RNIB Connect

Seen, is a new photography exhibition featuring 22 powerful portraits that bring into focus the lives of blind and partially sighted people. The exhibition is a collaboration between the RNIB and photographer Joshua Bratt. Over the last two years, Joshua has travelled the country, meeting people with sight loss and capturing their stories through his lens. These portraits reveal the extraordinary lives of blind and partially sighted people: individuals thriving in their careers, pursuing their passions and overcoming barriers. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was there for the launch of the exhibition on Thursday 11 September 2025 and caught up with Artist Clarke Reynolds who is widely known for his colourful Braille art work to find out what it was like being photographed by Joshua and how the exhibition will hopefully change sighted people’s opinion of what they think blind and partially sighted people can do. If you're in London this weekend, free tickets are still available for Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September. Book here: Seen Photography Exhibition Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite Can't visit in person? Check out the portraits and the audio description online: https://www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/join-us-this-september-for-the-launch-of-seen/welcome-to-seen/ Image shows a creatively angled photo showing off the exhibition space before the doors opened. Well lit, with white walls and ceiling, the photos hang along the wall with additional spotlights above. Tall bar stools and tables are set up in the middle of the space, waiting for visitors to come in and enjoy the space.

Seen, is a new photography exhibition featuring 22 powerful portraits that bring into focus the lives of blind and partially sighted people. The exhibition is a collaboration between the RNIB and photographer Joshua Bratt.Over the last two years, Joshua has travelled the country, meeting people with sight loss and capturing their stories through his lens. These portraits reveal the extraordinary lives of blind and partially sighted people: individuals thriving in their careers, pursuing their passions and overcoming barriers.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was there for the launch of the exhibition on Thursday 11 September 2025 and caught up with Joshua Bratt to find out more about the exhibition and how he feels now having all 22 portraits together on display at the RNIB’s Grimaldi Building as well as online too. If you're in London this weekend, free tickets are still available for Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th September. Book here: Seen Photography Exhibition Tickets, Multiple Dates | EventbriteCan't visit in person? Check out the portraits and the audio description online: https://www.rnib.org.uk/campaign-with-us/join-us-this-september-for-the-launch-of-seen/welcome-to-seen/Image shows Joshua and Toby enjoying a cuppa as they prepare for their interview. Joshua is on the left, wearing a black t-shirt and a cap and smiles as he holds up his mug. Next to him, Toby grins, big studio headphones resting around his neck.

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 some exciting new productions and a spooky showstopper.If you'd like more information on audio described events, go to www.mindseyedescription.co.uk#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB In Black Bold Letters With A Solid Pink Line Below

RNIB NI have launched a new podcast to discuss campaigning and breaking down barriers for people with sight loss. Amelia spoke to hosts Joe Kenny and Micheal Smith to learn more... Listen to episode one here - RNIB Support / RNIB NI Podcast episode 01 - Disability is a team sport 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.

Northern Ballet will be touring two great productions this autumn and into the spring of 2026 with ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ for younger audiences and ‘Merlin’ for slightly older audiences. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Pippa Moore MBE, Northern Ballet’s Artistic and Learning Assistant to find out more about both ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and ‘Merlin’.More details about Northern Ballet and their audio described performances including ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and Merlin’ can be found by visiting the Audio Described pages of their website - https://northernballet.com/accessible-performances/audio-described-performances(Image shows the Northern Ballet logo, the words 'Northern Ballet' in the centre of the image in white and on separate lines against a red background)

Hair & Care CIC have created a short film called 'Beyond Vision' in collaboration with director Hector Hilleary.Thery also held a panel conversation, moderated by Maliha Shoaib with panellists including Broadcaster and Activist Lucy Edwards, Designer Chet Lo, Beauty Director Alex Peters from Dazed Beauty, Jane Manley who is a Deaf Blind Social Media Analyst at the RNIB, and Hair & Care founder Anna Cofone.Amelia spoke to Fiona Quinn, Business Development, PR & Marketing Manager, to hear the evening went,Learn more about Hair & Care on their website - Hair&Care | Self care Workshops for the Visually Impaired Community in Greater LondonImage 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.

University of Limerick Graduate, Leah Shanahan, has designed a prototype for a fully accessible pregnancy test based on feedback from blind and partially sighted women.Amelia learned more about the development and creation of the test.Find Leah on linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-ni-sheanachain/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.

Remember A Charity Week is running from the 8th to 14th September this year, and is an opportunity for everyone to take a moment to consider leaving a gift to charity in their will, after looking after family and friends. This year's campaign celebrates the funny moments, interesting hobbies and unique quirks that we remember and cherish about our loved ones.Amelia spoke to Helen Smith, Head of Supporter Experience at RNIB, to learn more.Learn more about leaving a gift in your will here - Leaving a gift to RNIB in your Will | RNIB | RNIBImage 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.

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio sits down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. 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 device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect

A community choir in South Wales is proving that a community choir is ‘More Than Music’, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.You can find out more about the work of More Than Music Cymru on their website - Home - More Than Music Cymru

This week RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey is joined by both Vidar Hjardeng MBE, Inclusion and Diversity Consultant for ITV News across England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands along with Alan Russell, presenter of ‘The Daily Connect Show’ to review and discuss the audio described performance of Shakespeare’s ‘the Winter’s Tale’ at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon which Vidar and Allan saw a few weeks ago. About ‘The Winter’s Tale’Wild worlds, fractured loves, and second chances. When a king’s obsessive jealousy leads to a devastating series of acts, the journey toward healing must begin, led by time, truth, and the hope of forgiveness. From the shadowy dystopia of Sicilia to the untamed beauty of Bohemia, immerse yourself in Shakespeare’s most mysterious play.Directed by Yaël Farber (King Lear, Olivier-nominated Macbeth for the Almeida), and featuring double Olivier and Tony Award-winner Bertie Carvel (Matilda The Musical), Madeline Appiah, Aïcha Kossoko and John Light this reimagined tale is brought vividly to life through Soutra Gilmour’s elemental set and costume design, and striking lighting design by Tim Lutkin.In a time of darkness and uncertainty, hope endures in The Winter’s Tale.For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances of their productions do visit - https://www.rsc.org.uk/your-visit/access (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)

This September the RNIB is launching the second in a series of major surveys to help map out the future of support for people diagnosed with serious eye conditions. The RNIB is reaching out to people with lived experience of sight loss, their loved ones, carers and professionals in the field, to get their feedback on ideas to improve post-diagnostic support. Services are currently delivered in many forms, but in some areas of the UK it is a patchy, postcode lottery.The first survey in April this year asked about people’s experiences and ideas and this second survey seeks feedback on those ideas to see which ones people think will have the most impact and value.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Caroline Beard, RNIB’s Head of Strategic Innovation to find out more about the findings and key messages of the first survey and how people can take part in the follow-up survey too.You don’t have to have taken part in the first survey to take part in the follow-up survey.To find out more about the survey and take part do visit the RNIB website - https://www.rnib.org.uk (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)

Which seasonal fruit and veg can you enjoy this month? Amelia shares the folklore, nature and history to enjoy this September.Learn more about the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - The year in natureImage 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.

UK sight loss charity RNIB, has published the second part of its Big Travel Survey, looking at safe and independent mobility for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Ross Megan and Erik Mathies, from RNIB, to discuss the latest results of their research around issues faced by pedestrians. If you’d like to read the report or get involved by sharing it with your local politicians, go to rnib.in/travel-reports #RNIBConnect Image Shows RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters with A Solid Pink Line Below

A Scottish coach has been working to have Para Gymnastics included as a discipline for the Paralympic Games.RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Coach Angela Turner and visually impaired gymnast Zara Coote to hear more about the work and details of a forthcoming fundraiser for gymnasts to attend a showcase in Finland.If you’d like more info on the fundraiser in Glasgow on Sept 21st 2025, go to https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/benefit-in-aid-of-scottish-para-gymnastics-tickets-1630782677889?aff=oddtdtcreatorYou can also find details on Angela’s club on:instagram is @coggc_dis and TikTok coggc_dis#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters With A Solid Pink Line Below

Audio Description Association (ADA) Scotland have appointed their first blind chairperson, Amanda Foster. Amelia learned when her passion for AD began and what she plans to do in the role.Learn more about ADA Scotland on their website - Audio Description Association Scotland - ADA ScotlandImage 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.

Seable Holidays, a not for profit social enterprise organisation who provide accessible tailored and group holidays for blind and partially sighted people ran their first safari holiday this year which they will be offering again in 2026. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by both Damiano La Rocca, founder of Seable Holidays and Paul Nugent who is visually impaired and had an amazing experience on their recent safari holiday. Damiano explains a bit about who Seable Holidays are and what they do before talking about the fully accessible safari holiday while Paul gives an idea of what it was like going on this fantastic Seable safari holiday from a visually impaired persons point of view. To find out more about Seable Holidays, their next safari trip and other holidays do visit - https://seable.co.uk(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)

Young, neurodiverse, visually impaired artist Hannah Evans uses art to communicate her feelings and experience of the world. Amelia spoke to her and her mum Carol about her upcoming exhibitions. Hannah will be at the Livingston Designer Outlet Mall in in unit 73 from 10.30 am to 5 pm 29th to 31st August. Hannah will be at the Create Ed Gallery Kirkintiloch on Sat 6th September from 1 to 4.30pm. The exhibition is open from the 5th to the 13th September. Learn more about Hannah on her facebook - Facebook 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.

Each month, we are joined by some of the RNIB Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they’re working on. This month’s topics include the RNIB Campaigns Discussion Group, the National Emergency Alert, Guided Walks with MPs and the return of Parliament. If you’d like more information on campaigns or want to get involved , email [email protected] You can visit rnib.org.uk/news or call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Follow @RNIB_Campaigns on your socials or search for RNIB Campaigns #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.

How did Jamie MacDonald get on at this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival?Amelia learned more about his highlights, navigating around the city and his upcoming projects.Learn more about Jamie on his website - Jamie MacDonald - comedian, writer, actor and voice over artistYou can see Jamie perform his show in London on the 19th September - Jamie MacDonald: Toxic Bastard | Underbelly Boulevard SohoImage 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.

On Friday 5 September 2025 at 10.30am the Design Museum in London will be running an audio described tour of their exhibition ‘More than Human’ which looks at some radical ideas on how to design with and for other species.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Nao Zaragoza, Assistant Curator of Public Practice at the Design Museum, to firstly find out more about the museum, the ‘More than Human’ exhibition and what blind and partially sighted people can expect on the audio described tour of the exhibition on Friday 5 September at 10.30am. To find out more about the Design Museum, the audio described’ tor of the More than Human’ exhibition do visit - https://designmuseum.org/whats-on/talks-courses-and-workshops/audio-described-tour-more-than-human (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 Scotland has launched a new project, designed to provide more advice, support, events and community connections for blind and partially sighted people in rural and isolated areas.RNIB Connect Radio’s David Hogg spoke to Mark Campbell, who lives in Kingussie and attended one of the charity’s events.If you live in Scotland, are blind or partially sighted, and would like more info, go to www.rnib.org.uk/scotland#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters With A Solid Pink Line Below

We now compare and maybe contrast the experiences of going through education, employment and life for two Yorkshire blind people 50 years apart with the Rt Hon Lord Blunkett and Holly Tuke. In a recent column in the Yorkshire Post the Right Honourable Lord Blunkett talked openly about the challenges of being blind, something he rarely talks about as he prefers to be defined by his achievements in life and not by the barriers he has had to overcome.Holly Tuke, RNIB’s Social Media Manager who has been blind from birth and went through education about 50 years after Lord Blunkett has written a follow up article in The Yorkshire Post talking about some of the challenges she has faced and over come in her life too. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey brought both Lord Blunkett and Holly together to share an insight into their lives as two Yorkshire blind people who may be 50 years apart but possibly very much similar in so many ways.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 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)

NICE, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has recently approved new treatment in England for people living with the eye condition Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) helped by Researchers at the University of Cambridge.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Patrick Yu-Wai-Man, Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Cambridge who was involved in the research into using idebenone to treat Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) who explains more about the eye condition and how the NICE approved treatment might be appropriate for some people who have LHON.To find out more about the University of Cambridge research into the new treatment for Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) do visit the following pages of the University website - https://www.clinical-neuroscience.cam.ac.uk/news/first-ever-mitochondrial-disease-treatment-approved-nhs-england(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)

Seen, a collaboration between RNIB and photographer Joshua Bratt, is a new exhibition featuring 22 powerful portraits that bring into focus the lives of blind and partially sighted people. It is free of charge and is being held at RNIB's Grimaldi Building in London from the 12th-14th September.Barry Snell caught up with Joshua to learn more about the exhibition and his love of photographyClick here to learn more about 'Seen'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.

HMS Belfast, built by Harland & Wolff in 1936 was launched on St Patrick's Day, 17 March 1938 by Anne Chamberlain – the wife of then Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain. In her 24 year’s of active service HMS Belfast played many key roles in battles and peace-keeping duties around the world before being brought to London by IWM and opening to the public on Trafalgar Day, 21 October 1971. So do join RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey for a guided tour of HMS Belfast, London’s unique warship experience with Nigel Steel, one of the IWM Curators of Belfast, to find out more about her history and what life would have been like for the sailors who served and lived on her during active service. During the tour you will also hear clips from the recorded audio described guide for HMS Belfast which is available from the Visitors Centre for blind and partially sighted people. As mentioned in the guide due to the nature of the layout of HMS Belfast it is strongly recommended to visit with a sighted companion to help with navigating some areas of the ship. To find out more about HMS Belfast and the recorded audio described guide do visit - https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/hms-belfast 'The image shows HMS Belfast moored in her birth on the Thames from her prow to her stern with Tower Bridge in the background.’ (HMS Belfast IWM copyright)

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio sits down with of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity. This week RNIB’s Chief Strategy and Public Affairs Officer Vivienne Francis talks about the next stage of RNIB’s Travel and Transport reports. 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 device to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect

If you’re a user of the JAWS screen reader, you might be aware of recent changes to the pricing structure of the software. But what does it all mean for UK users? Tech Talk’s Jackie Brown has been finding out.You can hear Jackie's full conversation with Stuart Lawler from Sight and Sound on this week’s episode of Tech Talk, on Tuesday August 26th at 2pm.

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.

For students up and down the country results day is a nerve-wracking time. But students at The Royal National College for the Blind have had a lot to celebrate, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.For more information on the RNC, visit the ir website - A specialist residential college for young people with visual impairment

Tech Talk’s Callum Stoneman has been speaking to Orbit Research about their newest product, the Orbit Player.

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 next round of the RNIB Voice of the Customer Focus Group meetings will be looking at community eye-care.RNIB connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Zein, one of the RNIB’s Research Champion Volunteers to find out what being a Research Champion Volunteer is all about and how people can get involved in the next round of the RNIB Voice of the Customer Focus Groups which will be looking at community eye-care.To find out more about the RNIB Voice of the Customer Focus Groups and how to get involved do email [email protected] will be discussion topics and quick polls around community eye-care over on the RNIB Connect Voices private Facebook research community where you will find lots of other opportunities to get involved in research and various projects. To join the RNIB Connect Voices Facebook Group just log in to Facebook, search for RNIB Connect Voices and follow the instructions.(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)

Robert Kirkwood finds out about a community hub based in East Kilbride that serves South Lanarkshire and surrounding areas with not only food parcels but also school uniforms, toiletries, pet supplies and much more. Two blind veterans have found friendship through the service and they even have a blind volunteer who helps every week, as we find out from Loaves and Fishes chairperson Lesley Davidson. Image shows the team of volunteers and staff posing at the entrance to the Loaves & Fishes Community Hub. They're all smiling and pointing up at a bright blue sign with their name and a logo.

Each week, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell sits down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.This week Matt is joined by RNIB’s Chief Financial Officer, Kathryn Sherratt, as they discuss the official opening of RNIB Scotland’s new HQ in Edinburgh and there’s even a mention of Christmas.If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.ukYou can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Or ask your Amazon device to call RNIB's Helpline.#RNIBConnectImages Shows RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB in Bold Black Letter With A Solid Pink Line Below

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 next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This time we have the musical comedy that is ‘The Addams Family’ as the current tour visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describer Jonathan Nash. About ‘The Addams Family’ Following two hugely successful UK tours, and sold-out concerts at The London Palladium last year, everyone’s favourite kooky family are back on stage this summer in The Addams Family, starring Alexandra Burke (The X Factor, Sister Act, The Bodyguard) as Morticia, Lesley Joseph (Birds of a Feather, Young Frankenstein, Sister Act) as Grandma, Clive Rowe (The Prince of Egypt, Sister Act, A Christmas Carol) as Uncle Fester and Ricardo Afonso (Jesus Christ Superstar, Thriller Live, We Will Rock You) as Gomez. The Addams Family is the spectacular musical comedy from Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice (writers of the multi award-winning hit musical Jersey Boys), with music and lyrics by Tony Award-nominated Andrew Lippa, based on the characters created by Charles Addams. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, is all grown up and has a shocking secret that only Gomez knows. She’s fallen in love with a sweet, young man from a respectable family. With his cherished Morticia in the dark will Gomez manage to keep his daughter’s secret until the two families meet for a fateful dinner with hilarious consequences Join them, plus Uncle Fester, Lurch, Pugsley, Grandma and more for a heart-warming story of love, family and friendship… with a twist! Featuring a live orchestra and extraordinary original score The Addams Family is sure to entertain whether you are 7 or 307! For more about the current tour of this vibrant gothic comedy musical that is The Adams Family along with details of performances near you do visit - https://theaddamsfamily.co.uk/uk-tour (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)

On Thursday 14th of August, following an extensive refurbishment, RNIB Scotland officially re-opened their Edinburgh HQ.Allan Russell went ahead to the grand re-opening to check it out for himself. Image shows from left to right: James Adams, Sarah Boyack MSP, Matt Stringer, and finally Kirin Saeed cutting the pink ribbon. Matt is clapping as he stands behind Sarah and Kirin. James is standing behind them all and leaning casually against the gate at the front entrance to the building. They're all smiling.

Sight Village exhibitions are a great way to learn more about products and services designed for blind and partially sighted people in your area. Hywel Davies has been hearing all about plans for this year’s Sight Village North West. For more information, visit the Sight Village website - Sight Village Blackpool 2025 - Queen Alexandra College

Accessible technology company ‘Envision’ launched their new ‘Ally Solos Glasses’ on August the 14th. Tech Talk’s Callum Stoneman spoke to the team behind the wearable, hands-free AI glasses. You can hear a longer version of Callum’s conversation with Envision on next week’s episode of Tech Talk.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Kris Wallace, daughter Jess, and other family members will take on the Edinburgh Kiltwalk to raise funds for UK sight loss charity RNIB.Kris spoke with RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell about the challenge, the prep and why Jess is leading the charge.If you’d like to sponsor Jess and her family go to www.justgiving.com/team/jessjollywalkers#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Logo, A White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters With A Solid Pink Line Below

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 National Theatre at Home. Audio described performances included: Inter Alia’ - Saturday 23 August 2.30pm, touch tour at 12.30pm and Friday 12 September 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, National Theatre’s Lyttelton Theatre Bacchae - Saturday 4 October 2.30pm, touch tour 12.30pm and Friday 24 October 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, National Theatre’s Olivier Theatre Till the Stars Come Down - Wednesday 10 September, 7.30pm, Theatre Royal Haymarket, London Dear England on tour from 15 September From National Theatre at Home with audio description David recommended ‘A Tupperware of Ashes’ and ‘Mosquitos’. 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 National Theatre 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)

The Pleasance Theatre Trust has been working with Sight Scotland to provide visual awareness training to over 250 of their Edinburgh Festival Fringe staff to make the experience of visiting one of their Pleasance Fringe venues as accessible as possible for visually impaired festival goers as well as offering more audio described performances this year too. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Jonny Patton, Head of Theatre Edinburgh for Pleasance to firstly give a bit of background to the history of the presence of this famous venue at the Fringe, how the visual awareness training went with Sight Scotland and more about some of the described shows at the many Pleasance venues at this year’s Fringe. For listings of shows that include access at the many Pleasance venues do visit - https://www.pleasance.co.uk/events/accessible And to find out more about access generally at the many Pleasance venues at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025 do visit - https://www.pleasance.co.uk/edinburgh-access (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)

Each week, on RNIB Connect Radio we sit down with Matt Stringer, CEO of RNIB, to look at some of the big stories coming from the UK sight loss charity.This week Matt began with his review of RNIB’s very own stand-up comedian Tom Skelton and his Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2025 show ‘Visually Impaired Papa’, then looking forward to the official opening of the refurbished RNIB Scotland office in Hill Side Crescent, Edinburgh next week plus some news around accessible voting and the RNIB’s presence at the up-coming Party Political Conferences this autumn including a panel event at the Labour Party Conference.If you, or someone you know, would like information on the support and services available from RNIB, go to www.rnib.org.ukYou can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999Or ask your Amazon smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline.#RNIBConnect Image shows a smiling Matt

History meets punk rock and ballet in an exciting production at this year’s Edinburgh International Festival.Amelia spoke to Co-Audio Describer Emma-Jane McHenry to learn more about the production and her process along with Co-Audio Describer Fiona Pedgrift.Learn more about the production here - Mary, Queen of Scots | Edinburgh International FestivalImage 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.

What are zines and how have they been used in disability justice? Amelia spoke to Adam Rose, the Co-curator of the Zines display, and Jake Blackavar, a Visitor Experience and Engagement Facilitator, to learn about tactile and audio zines and their upcoming audio described tours of the Wellcome Collection's exhibition.Learn more about Zines Forever! on the The Wellcome Collection Website - Zines Forever! DIY Publishing and Disability Justice | Wellcome CollectionImage 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.

Journey to the underworld and back with Opera Australia, presenting Opera Queensland’s production of Orpheus and Eurydice in association with Circa for the 2025 Edinburgh International Festival (EIF). Opera and circus acrobatics combine for this striking production with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and a chorus from Scottish Opera for the European premiere of this electrifying production of Gluck’s seminal opera. Amelia spoke to audiodescribers Veronica Kinahan and Trina Gilles to learn more about the production and their process. Learn more about the production on the EIF website - Orpheus and Eurydice | Edinburgh International Festival

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 next of his regular audio described theatre reviews for 2025 This week we have Cameron Mackintosh and Disney’s spectacular production of the classic multi award-winning musical ‘Mary Poppins’ as the UK and Ireland tour visited the Birmingham Hippodrome with description by Professional Audio Describers Julia Grundy and Jonathan Nash. About ‘Mary Poppins’ Acclaimed Australian stars, Stefanie Jones and Jack Chambers reprise their roles as Mary Poppins and Bert, having both received critical acclaim and nightly standing ovations for their performances in the recent Australian production. Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the World’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is even more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs. The timeless score includes the classic songs by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman; Jolly Holiday, Step in Time, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and Feed the Birds with new songs and additional music and lyrics by the Olivier award-winning British team of George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. For more about the current UK and Ireland tour of ‘Mary Poppins’ including dates and times of performances near you do visit the production website - https://marypoppins.co.uk (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)

Life is full of twists and turns that can change the path we’re on.We gather three members of the blind and partially sighted community to talk about the big turning points and transitions in their lives.Join Goalball player and soon to be married Devante Claridge, mum and music lover Maureen Goddall, and paralympic champion Lizzi Jordan as they discuss dealing with change and imagining different futures.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. Learn more about Lizzi on the British Cycling website - Lizzi Jordan - Great Britain Cycling Team Rider ProfileLearn more about Devante on the MyVisionOxfordshire website - Devante Claridge - MyVision OxfordshireListen to Maureen's Guide Dog Blogs wherever you get your RNIB Connect Radio podcasts.

Clarke Reynolds, the UK’s premier braille artist has teamed up with Pepita Coffee to make a limited-edition tactile coffee tin with a share of the proceeds going to RNIB. David Hogg learns more.Head to shop.rnib.org.uk to grab your coffee tin while stocks last.Image shows the front of the Pepita coffee tin. The tin has four large squares, two white and two red. The inside of the red squares are white and the inside white squares are red. The braille matches the outer colour of the square for contrast. The braille in the four squares spells "love".

Lunchbox is about the impact of bullying, through the eyes of a troubled Scottish boy, Steven and Pakistani girl, Lubna. Amelia spoke to comedian and performer Lubna Kerr about her show ‘Lunchbox’ which has a touch tour and pre-show audio. Book tickets for Lunchbox here - Lunchbox | Edinburgh Festival Fringe Learn more about Lubna's writing, comedy and theatre work on her website - Lubna Kerr 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.

How are Visually Impaired Creators Scotland (VICS) working to make the Edinburgh Festival more accessible? What are some of the accessible show highlights? Amelia spoke to VICS founder Kirin Saeed to learn more.Email Kirin on [email protected] more about VICS on their website Visually Impaired Creators Scotland