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RNIB Connect

RNIB Connect

575 episodes — Page 7 of 12

S2 Ep 1471S2 Ep1471: RNIB Technology Fair Returns To Northern Ireland In 2026

RNIB’s Technology Fair returns to Northern Ireland in February. Hywel Davies has been hearing about plans for the next event.

Nov 14, 20259 min

S2 Ep 1470S2 Ep1470: Making a Difference Through Volunteering With RNIB

Did you know that charity RNIB offers emotional support for blind and partially sighted people through their Sight Loss Counselling team?For International Volunteer Day (5th of December), we spoke about the importance of this support and the difference it can make on someone’s life with Paula Bell, Volunteer Counsellor with RNIB.Paula shared her story with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew.To find out about RNIB’s counselling service, or about volunteering with RNIB, get in touch with our helpline. Call 0303 123 99 99 or email [email protected] 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.

Nov 14, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1469S2 Ep1469: Snow Queen Ballet Tour Has Audio Described Performances

Scottish Ballet has taken to the road with it’s festive offering, The Snow Queen.RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Emma-Jane McHenry to learn more about the story and where blind and partially sighted patrons can catch their audio described shows.#RNIBConnectImage Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters A Solid Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath

Nov 14, 20258 min

S2 Ep 1468S2 Ep1468: Is It A Strain Taking The Train?

Just how easy, or difficult, is it to use trains if you're blind or partially sighted?RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke with actor and comedian Jamie MacDonald, to get his words of wisdom and warning!To learn more about Jamie, go to www.jamiemacdonaldcomedian.com#RNIBConnectImage Shows A Smiling Jamie MacDonald Wearing A Grey Jumper

Nov 14, 202519 min

S2 Ep 1466S2 Ep1466: Would You Stand For Elected Office?

Disability Wales are offering support to help make standing for elected office easier. Hywel Davies has been finding out more about the ‘Access to Elected Office Fund’. For more information on how to apply, visit the Disability Wales website - Access to Elected Office Fund Wales - Disability Wales

Nov 12, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1462S2 Ep1462: How Can Digital Engagement Improve Social Inclusion And Wellbeing For VI People?

The University Of Bournemouth are exploring how training blind and partially sighted people in Digital Media can improve their wellbeing and social inclusion. Amelia spoke to Catalin Brylla, Principal Lecturer in Film and Television, to learn more...Learn more about the research here - Blindness and media engagement | Bournemouth UniversityImage 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.

Nov 11, 202514 min

S2 Ep 1465S2 Ep1465: Access Becomes Art for World Ballet Day 2025

World Ballet Day on Wednesday 12 November 2025 is the global celebration of dance where artists and audiences are invited to experience ballet in new transformative ways as access becomes art.The Royal Ballet in London will be streaming a programme of dance which will have at its heart a brand-new six minute work curated and conceived by choreographer and Artistic Director of Fall for Dance North Festival Robert Binet, in collaboration with blind artist and assistant professor of Disability Studies Devon Healey, who’s Immersive Descriptive Audio will take people into the inner world of dance through sensation, sound and storytelling.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Devon and Rob to find out more about World Ballet Day 2025 and their collaborative work for the Royal Ballet which will be streamed as part of the celebrations on the day.To find out more and watch Devon and Rob’s brand-new six-minute work do visit the following pages of the RBO website - https://www.rbo.org.uk/world-ballet-day-2025Image 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.

Nov 11, 202513 min

S2 Ep 1464S2 Ep1464: The Get Gospel Choir at the RNIB Evening of Festive Music

The highly acclaimed Get Gospel Choir will be providing the entertainment at the RNIB Evening of Festive music at Westminster Chapel on Thursday 4 December 2025.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Jules Rendell founder of the get Gospel Choir to find out all about the history of the choir, a flavour of the festive tunes that they will be performing at the RNIB Evening of Festive music at Westminster Chapel on Thursday 4 December 2025 and what the choir get out of performing lots of festive tunes at this time of the year.To find out more about the Get Gospel Choir and to hear examples of their singing do visit - https://www.getgospel.co.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)

Nov 11, 20259 min

S2 Ep 1463S2 Ep1463: Glen On Being A VI Carer For His VI Mum

Glen Turner is a carer for his mum as she ages and her sight deteroirates.He's been sharing the challenges and lessons from his experience on his blog, Well Eye Never, and told Amelia how he's been looking after himself.Find out more about Glen and read his carer's journal here - Well Eye Never – Visually impaired accessibility advocate, culture vulture & London explorerImage 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.

Nov 7, 202520 min

S2 Ep 1461S2 Ep1461: Charity Chief Exec's Customer Update 08/11/2025

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 talks about An important government paper on Employment and 2 big events the charity is behind on health and employment, plus a nod to the recent industry wins for RNIB Connect Radio.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 device to call RNIB's Helpline.#RNIBConnectImage Show CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket

Nov 7, 202510 min

S2 Ep 1450S2 Ep1450: Vidar Hjardeng MBE - Measure for Measure, AD Theatre Review

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 week we are back at the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford-upon-Avon again as Vidar reviews Emily Burns’ bold and contemporary production of Shakespeare’s tale of justice and morality ‘Measure for Measure’ with description by Professional Audio Describers Gethyn Edwards and Carolyn Smith.About ‘Measure for Measure’‘To whom should I complain? Who would believe me?’If you knew you could get away with a crime - would you commit it? Shakespeare’s razor-sharp thriller, directed by Emily Burns (Love’s Labour’s Lost, 2024) is brought up to date in a heart-racing, relevant new version. This Measure for Measure is unmissable theatre with its finger on the pulse of what it means to expose lies, abuse and, ultimately, the truth.For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances 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 underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font)

Nov 7, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1452S2 Ep1452: England Prepare For IBSA Partially Sighted Futsal World Championship

Ahead of their opening game in the IBSA Partially Sighted Futsal World Championship, Hywel Davies caught up with the England Head Coach Duncan Gilchrist, for his thoughts before of the tournament.

Nov 5, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1449S2 Ep1449: Half Light by Holly Thomas

Holly Thomas is a visually impaired Dance Artist, Choreographer and Audio Description Practitioner.‘Half Light’ invites audiences to awaken your senses and tune in to a reality where movement is revealed in sound.Part biographical, part fiction, Half Light draws upon Holly Thomas’ lived experience of visual impairment and parenting to unmask a multi-generational story about the courage it takes to send your child into a world that you may not always understand.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Holly to find out more about her background as a Dancer, Choreographer and Audio Description Practitioner plus all about ‘Half Light’ too’.Half Light’ is on at the Arnolfini in Bristol on Friday 14 November 2025 with performances and touch tours starting at 4pm and more can be found by visiting - https://arnolfini.org.uk/whatson/hollythomashalflight/To find out more about Holly do visit her website - https://hollythomasdance.co.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)

Nov 5, 20257 min

S2 Ep 1448S2 Ep1448: Your Chance To Try Futsal In Hertfordshire

Have you ever wanted to try the sport of Futsal? There’s a new club and new training opportunities coming to Hertfordshire, as Hywel Davies has been finding out.

Nov 5, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1444S2 Ep1444: How Do You Get Accessible Letters From Santa For Blind & Partially Sighted Children?

The RNIB elves are working with Santa to get lots of accessible letters out to blind and partially sighted children before Christmas.RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell dropped into the Grotto to chat to Titch the Elf, try some quizzing and listen to Santa chatting with a little one…If you know a blind or partially sighted child, who’d love a letter, go to www.rnib.org.uk/santaTo complete the form by November 30th.Don’t worry if you miss that date, Santa can send a festive email to them, just email [email protected] before December 18th.#RNIBConnectImage Shows Titch The Elf, Titch Is Wearing Her Christmas Dress And Hat, Keeping Warm Standing By The Fire That Has Christmas Stockings Hanging On.

Nov 5, 20259 min

Ep 14471447: November Almanac

Which Geese will be taking to the sky this month? Why do we celebrate fireworks night? Amelia shares some of the birds, celebrations and folklore you can enjoy this November. Learn more about the nature you can enjoy every month on the RSPB website - The year in nature 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.

Nov 4, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1447S2 Ep1447: RNIB Voice of the Customer Research Programme Focusing on Volunteering

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 looking at the experience of volunteering as a blind or partially sighted person. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Charlotte Jones, RNIB Insight Community Manager and Grace Hill an RNIB Volunteer and focus group participant for a bit of an overview of the voice of the Customer Research Programme, and what it is like taking part in one of the focus group meetings. (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)

Nov 4, 202512 min

S2 Ep 1445S2 Ep1445: Guide Dogs Don’t Just Guide!

Did you know that there are times when a guide dog is trained to ignore a request from it’s owner when out and about? RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Tim Stafford from Guide Dogs to find out why… If you’d like more info on Guide Dogs UK, go to www.guidedogs.org.uk #RNIBConnect Image Show RNIB Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters A Pink Line Below With Connect Radio Underneath In Black Letters

Nov 4, 20257 min

S2 Ep 1441S2 Ep1441: Simon Startin on Playing the Profit Tireseus in Bacchae at the National Theatre

Simon Startin is a Visually impaired Actor, Playwright, Director and Activist who has been playing The Blind Profit Tireseus in a thrilling new version of Euripides’ timeless tragedy Bacchae at the National Theatre.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Simon during the run of Bacchae at the National Theatre and not long after attending one of the audio described performances of the production to firstly find out why Simon wanted to study theatre at the Royal Welsh Academy of Music and Drama, how he found it during the rehearsal process and preparing to play Tireseus on the National Theatre’s Olivier stage, what help he needs when performing as a visually impaired actor and whether it was the right casting for him to be playing the blind profit in Bacchae.To find out more about access at the national Theatre including details of audio described performances of NT productions do visit - https://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/your-visit/access/(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)

Nov 3, 202511 min

S2 Ep 1443S2 Ep1443: TBK Brett Devloo Documentary and Fatherhood

Let’s catch up with blind skateboarder Brett Devloo to hear about his upcoming documentary…

Nov 3, 20254 min

S2 Ep 1442S2 Ep1442: Braille Christmas Cards and an In-Store Personal Braille Message Printing Service Too

For the first time this year the charity Cards for Good Causes who through their website and pop-up shops sell a range of cards and gifts supporting many charities will be also selling in a number of their shops Braille Christmas cards in aid of the RNIB with an in-store facility to be able to print personalised Braille messages in the cards too.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Christine Ansell, chief Executive of Cards for Good Causes to give some background to the history of the charity and why they decided to offer Braille cards with the personalised in-store Braille message writing facility too. To find out more about cards for Good Causes and the locations of their pop-up shops do visit - https://cardsforcharity.co.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)

Nov 3, 20259 min

S2 Ep 1440S2 Ep1440: Vidar Hjardeng MBE - Cyrano de Bergerac, AD Theatre Review

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 week we have a new version of Edmond Rostand’s ‘Cyrano de Bergerac’ at the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Swan Theatre, which Vidar says is one of the best productions he has seen in Stratford-upon-Avon with description by Professional Audio Describers Emily Magdij and Annette Stocken.About ‘Cyrano de Bergerac’ ‘No master to serve, no leash to bear. I walk as I please, and I speak as I dare.' Poet, soldier and philosopher. Cyrano de Bergerac burns with brilliance. He's fiercely funny and intensely romantic – but behind the veil of wit is one large problem: his nose. Haunted by doubts and too proud to beg, he watches from the shadows as Roxane – bold, beautiful and seemingly unreachable – falls for another man, Christian. But this handsome, tongue-tied young suitor knows his only hope of charming Roxane is to seduce her with words. And only one person can help… Olivier Award-winning actor Adrian Lester (Riviera, Hustle, National Theatre Othello and Henry V) is Cyrano. Director Simon Evans (Staged, The Dazzle, A Day in the Death of Joe Egg) co-adapts with Debris Stevenson (Poet in Da Corner, My Brother’s a Genius), bringing new life to this thrilling, lyrical tale of love and lies, longing and disguise.For more about access at the Royal Shakespeare Company including details of audio described performances 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 underlined with a bold pink line. Underneath the line: ‘Connect Radio’ is written in black in a smaller font)

Oct 31, 20258 min

S2 Ep 1437S2 Ep1437: UK Sight Loss Charity’s Monthly Campaigns Update 31/10/2025

Each month, RNIB Connect Radio's Allan Russell is joined by some of the RNIB Campaigns Team to discuss some of the big projects they’re working on. This month’s topics include a call for your help with the assessment debate for Personal Independence Payments and get your MP to a Parliamentary event to support better vision rehabilitation. 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 RNIB Connect Radio Logo, White Background, RNIB In Bold Black Letters, A Solid Pink Line Below & Connect Radio In Black Letters Below

Oct 31, 202510 min

S2 Ep 1438S2 Ep1438: Urgent Call For Improvement To Vision Rehabilitation

UK sight loss charity RNIB is calling for improved access to Vision rehabilitation Services to help those losing their sight. RNIBs Allan Russel spoke to Alexis Horam to find out why the services are so vital and what are the problems faced by staff. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight 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.

Oct 30, 202513 min

S2 Ep 1436S2 Ep1436: Prepare Early For Christmas With Christmas Products From The RNIB Shop

In this podcast, Hubert chats to Claire Maxwell from our very own shop, as she gives us the lowdown of what's available for customers who would like to start getting ready for Christmas early.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.

Oct 29, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1435S2 Ep1435: Out Of Sight Campaign: Bhavini Makwana's Story

New research published by RNIB shows delays to support following a sight loss diagnosis are leaving blind and partially sighted people at risk. Titled Life on Pause, the report shows a fifth of local authorities in England left people waiting for more than a year for a vision rehabilitation assessment and subsequent support. Whilst 85 per cent of local authorities missed the RNIB recommended timeframe to offer assessments. This means thousands of people with sight loss remain Out of Sight and unable to access the support they need to live life to the full. Joining us now to share her experience of accessing rehabilitation services and the importance of being able to access them early on is Bhavini Makwana. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight 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.

Oct 29, 202510 min

S2 Ep 1434S2 Ep1434: Charity Chief Exec's Customer Update 25/10/2025

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 talks about the launch of the Out Of Sight campaign and petition, there’s a look ahead to some big events in November and a Christmas nod to the RNIB shop. 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 Image shows CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt is wearing glasses and a grey jacket.

Oct 25, 202510 min

S2 Ep 1429S2 Ep1429: Vidar Hjardeng MBE - The Party Girls, AD Theatre Review

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 week we have the sensational story of the Mitford sister’s with 'The Party Girls' at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith. About ‘The Party Girls’ The glamorous Mitford girls cut a glorious swathe through pre-war high society, amidst the glittering world of debutantes and dukes. But as Fascism rises and political storm clouds crackle over carefree country houses, the bonds of sisterhood are threatened by new and treacherous desires. Amy Rosenthal’s compelling, touching and witty new play explores the true story of a family riven by political extremism, seen through the eyes of Jessica (Decca) Mitford as she battles to stay true to her beliefs. Nancy aspires to be a celebrated novelist, Diana and Unity fall for the dangerous, charismatic leaders of the Far Right in Britain and Germany, and Debo sets her cap at a Duke. Meanwhile Decca crosses continents in her own passionate pursuit of love – but can she ever escape her sisters and her past? To find out more about access at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre do visit - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility/ (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)

Oct 24, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1433S2 Ep1433: New Instillation Shares '8 Voices In Darkness'

Art-lovers in south Wales will have the chance to visit a new exhibition that’s been created with the help of blind and partially sighted people. Hywel Davies has been hearing more about ‘8 Voices In Darkness’.

Oct 24, 202510 min

S2 Ep 1432S2 Ep1432: A Tongue In Cheek Look At Life As A Funny Blind Guy

Actor and comedian Jamie MacDonald sits down with RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell for a new series looking at life as a blind person. As you’d expect, their chat has a slightly tongue in cheek take on each topic… For more on Jamie, go to www.jamiemacdonaldcomedian.com Image: A photo of Jamie. Jamie smiles posing in a grey jumper in front of a grey background.

Oct 24, 202518 min

S2 Ep 1431S2 Ep1431: Could You Help To Develop New Technology?

RNIB Cymru are giving Welsh language speakers the opportunity to shape how the language is being used in screen reader software. Hywel Davies has been finding out more. For more information and details on how to join the panel, email [email protected]

Oct 23, 20259 min

S2 Ep 1430S2 Ep1430: Out of Sight Campaign - Chloe Hesse’s Story

With the publication of the RNIB Life on Pause report stating that thousands of people with sight loss remain Out of Sight, with challenges in accessing local vision rehabilitation services leaving them without the support that they need to live life to the full.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Chloe Hesse about not only coming to terms with her sight loss but also her journey with local vision rehabilitation. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSightImage 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.

Oct 22, 202511 min

S2 Ep 1428S2 Ep1428: Out of Sight Re-Launch Life On Pause

RNIB are launching a new phase of their Out of Sight Campaign and you can get involved. Amelia spoke to Vivienne Francis, RNIB Chief Strategy And Public Affairs Officer, to learn more. Join RNIB's call to action and sign our petition: https://bit.ly/RNIBOutOfSight 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.

Oct 22, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1427S2 Ep1427: Pioneering Eye Device Restores Reading Vision to Blind Eyes…

A pivotal European clinical trial of a new electronic eye implant has seen remarkable results. The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed 84% of participants were able to read letters, numbers and words using prosthetic vision through an eye that had previously lost its sight due to the untreatable progressive eye condition, geographic atrophy with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey was joined by Mahi Muqit, senior vitreoretinal consultant at Moorfields Eye Hospital and the Institute of Ophthalmology at University College London who lead the UK arm of the trial to explain more about the results of the study and the technology used too. There is more information about this new pioneering eye device on the following pages of the Moorfields Eye Hospital website which also includes a link to register on the Moorfields research portal, ROAM which will give you access to current and future research - https://www.moorfields.nhs.uk/about-us/news-and-blogs/news/pioneering-eye-device-restores-reading-vision-to-blind-eyes (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)

Oct 21, 202512 min

S2 Ep 1426S2 Ep1426: UK Sight Loss Charity has Job Placements Up For Grabs

UK sight loss charity RNIB, has launched the first round of its job placements for blind and partially sighted people. RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Heather Barbara, RNIB Employment Advisor, to find out more. If you’d like more info on the job placements, go to www.rnib.org.uk/jobs You can also call the Helpline on 0303 123 9999 #RNIBConnect Image Shows RNIB Connect Radio Logo

Oct 21, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1425S2 Ep1425: Finding Confidence & Making New Friends in Northern Ireland

Find out about a Peer-to-Peer Support Group in Northern Ireland, that helps connect blind and partially sighted 18- to 35-year-olds.Organised by RNIB Northern Ireland, the group organises engaging activities for members to try out and do something fun together.Speaking with RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew are members of the group, Natalie Devine and Cerys Stewart.To inquire about the group, call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email [email protected] 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.

Oct 20, 20257 min

S2 Ep 1422S2 Ep1422: Charity Chief Exec's Customer Update 18/10/2025

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 talks about, a new tech offering from Be My Eyes and Tesco, there’s news from Waymo and are you thinking about 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.#RNIBConnectImage Show CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket

Oct 18, 20257 min

S2 Ep 1421S2 Ep1421: Vidar Hjardeng MBE - Emma, AD Theatre Review

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. As we celebrate the 250 anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, we have a brand new stage adaptation of her comedy of manners with ‘Emma’ presented by Bath Theatre Royal at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Carolyn Smith About ‘Emma’ “I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like” The beautiful, high-spirited Emma Woodhouse is determined that she will never marry but loves to meddle in her friends and neighbours’ relationships. When her confidante and former governess, Miss Taylor weds her fiancé Mr Weston, Emma, having introduced the couple, takes credit for the marriage and decides that a future in matchmaking lies ahead of her. So begins a comic journey through the lives and loves of Emma’s acquaintances but as the romantic web she weaves amongst her friends becomes ever more entangled, will Emma herself get swept up in true love’s wake…? Jane Austen’s enduring comedy of manners is filled with memorable characters – the dashing Mr Knightley, Emma’s friends Jane Fairfax and Harriet Smith, the mercenary Reverend Elton and his delightfully pretentious wife Augusta. This delightful new stage adaptation celebrates the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen‘s birth. To find out more about Bath Theatre Royal’s production of Emma as it continues on it’s UK tour do visit - https://www.theatreroyal.org.uk/events/emma/ And for more about access at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre do go to - https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/your-visit/accessibility/ (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)

Oct 17, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1424S2 Ep1424: RNIB Visibly Better Employer Happy Smiles Training

Lets hear about another company that’s achieved RNIB’s Visibly Better Employer standard. David Hogg speaks to Alex Winstanley from Happy Smiles Training and RNIB Employment Advisor Roy Imeson.

Oct 17, 20257 min

S2 Ep 1423S2 Ep1423: Partially Sighted Contestant Takes Part In Channel 4's 'Hunted'

Channel 4’s reality challenge series ‘Hunted’ has returned. Ordinary people on the run from a team of expert hunters. But how different would the challenge be if you were partially sighted? Hywel Davies has been speaking to two of this year’s contestants.

Oct 17, 202512 min

S2 Ep 1460S2 Ep1460: More Help for Blind and Partially Sighted People in Ardersier

RNIB Scotland has a new project which aims to provide more advice, support, events and community connections for blind and partially sighted people living in rural or isolated areas of Scotland. David Hogg spoke to John Baptie from Ardersier.

Oct 16, 20259 min

S2 Ep 1420S2 Ep1420: The City for Incurable Women Returns to Camden People’s Theatre with AD at Every Performance

International theatre-collective Fish in a dress will be bringing their critically-acclaimed show ‘The City for Incurable Women’ back to the Camden people’s Theatre from 22 - 25 October 2025 with audio description at every performance. ‘The City for Incurable Women’ is an outrageous tale of medical misogyny based on the true story of patients performing 'hysteria' onstage in 19th century Paris.RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Helena McBurney, co-founder of International theatre-collective Fish in a Dress who also wrote ‘The City for Incurable Women’ to find out more about the show and the collective too.For more about ‘The City for Incurable Women’ by Fish in a Dress and the AD performances at Camden People’s Theatre do visit - https://cptheatre.co.uk/whatson/The-City-for-Incurable-Women-2025(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)

Oct 16, 20257 min

S2 Ep 1419S2 Ep1419: RNIB Shop Lighting Sale

There’s a sale on in the RNIB Shop. David Hogg finds out more…

Oct 14, 20252 min

S2 Ep 1416S2 Ep1416: Accessible Films And Events At Scottish Queer International Film Festival

Scottish Queer International Film festival is back for it’s 10th year, with a variety of audio described films and accessible events. Amelia spoke to SQIFF Director Indigo Torres, SQIFF Access Coordinator Charlie Little and RNIB Scotland Social Action Community Co-ordinator James Kyle to learn more. See the programme and book your tickets here - SQIFF – Scottish Queer International Film 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.

Oct 14, 202511 min

S2 Ep 1418S2 Ep1418: England Blind Football Sides Shine At IBSA Tournaments

Blind football teams from across the globe gathered in India earlier this month for two major competitions. Hywel Davies has been hearing how the sides from England got on.For more information about Blind Football, visit the FA's website - Blind Football | England Football

Oct 14, 202510 min

S2 Ep 1417S2 Ep1417: RNIB NI 18 to 35s Peer Support Group

Paulina speaks with two young members of a peer-to-peer support group ran by RNIB Northern Ireland…Learn more about the services offered by RNIB NI here - Northern Ireland - services, support and information | 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.

Oct 14, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1414S2 Ep1414: 'National Braille Week' On The Dot Pad X

It’s National Braille Week and we’re speaking to the team at Dot, hearing about their tactile graphics and multi-line braille display, the Dot Pad X.

Oct 13, 20258 min

S2 Ep 1415S2 Ep1415: Charity Chief Exec's Customer Update 11/10/2025

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 buy talking about the announcement of RNIB’s new Chief Executive, Simon Antrobus who will be taking over from Matt in early January 2026 and then to a bit of a round-up of RNIB presence at the Political Party conferences including the RNIB Fringe 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.uk You can call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 Or ask your Amazon smart speaker to call RNIB's Helpline. #RNIBConnect (Image shows a smiling Matt)

Oct 11, 20256 min

S2 Ep 1409S2 Ep1409: Vidar Hjardeng MBE - Surinderella, AD Theatre Review

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 Rifco Theatre, the award-winning theatre company behind hits like Frankie Goes to Bollywood and Britain's Got Bhangra, gave audiences an evening of laughter, romance, and larger-than-life entertainment with ‘Surinderella’ at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Michael Hurst.About ‘Surinderella’Welcome to The Bolly-woods, where the naach is non-stop, the drama is bigger than your aunties, and the romance is straight out of a filmi blockbuster!Meet Surinder – sweet, strong, and stuck in a never-ending chore list thanks to her two selfie-obsessed, Insta-vlogging stepsisters who give her the name Surinderella. Her only real support is the one and only Basanti, a cow with more attitude than a desi girl.Meanwhile, Prince Ravi is drowning in shaadi pressure from his royal family. But when he accidentally bumps into Surinderella, sparks fly faster than a Bollywood dance sequence!Enter the fabulous Devi Godmother, arriving in full-on glam mode with magic, makeovers, and masala moves. With a dazzling Bollywood Ball, a mystical slipper, and a lot of bakwas, Surinderella’s destiny is about to get a serious glow-up!Produced by Rifco Theatre & Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, in Association with Imagine Theatre and Watford Palace Theatre.For more about ‘Surinderella’ and the current tour do visit - https://www.rifcotheatre.com/live-shows/surinderella-2(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)

Oct 10, 20255 min

S2 Ep 1400S2 Ep1400: Wintering - Roundtable

How can we embrace the colder seasons and look after our mental health? For our ‘wintering’ roundtable, we brought together four panellists to share tips for making the cold months feel a bit brighter and discuss how they’ve gotten through darker times in their lives. Join Professor of Applied Counselling and Psychotherapy Research in Sight Loss Mhairi Thurston, RNIB Connect Radio’s Pete Wild, Yoga teacher Dawn Blezard and Social Action Community Coordinator James Kyle for a cosy and candid roundtable. Learn more about Pete here - Meet the RNIB Connect Radio presenters | RNIB | RNIB Listen to Dawn on the Happy Hour - The Happy Hour - RNIB Connect Radio | RNIB Learn more about Mhairi here - Professor Mhairi Thurston

Oct 10, 202531 min