RNIB Connect

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners.The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey.RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was in attendance and spoke to one of the afternoon’s speakers, Tim Morgan. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners.The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey.The event marked the launch of Beyond the Eye, a training course for ophthalmologists. David Hogg spoke to RNIB’s Amanda Hawkins to find out more.Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke to James Palmer from NHS England. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners.The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey.RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke to Dr Peter Hamspon. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners.The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey.RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke with Dharmesh Patel, CEO of Primary Eyecare Services.Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners. The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey. RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg was there and spoke with one of the keynote speakers, Dr Gillian Rudduck, about their embrace of new technologies. Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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.

Earlier this week, RNIB have marked two years since the launch of the Eye Care Support Pathway, with an event in Manchester which brought together optometrists, sector leaders and other partners.The framework was developed by the charity with leading organisations across the eye care and sight loss sectors, to ensure patients have timely access to information, advice and support throughout their eye care journey.Before the event started, RNIB Connect Radio's David Hogg caught up with RNIB CEO Matt Stringer about the day ahead and the work that’s been done over the past few years.Find our full coverage of the event here: Audioboom / Reporting From Eye Care Support Pathway 2 Years On Event 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 the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art. Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists. All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with London-based Korean artist and Educator Serafina Min who’s work can only be experienced through recorded audio description which takes it’s theme from a conversation she had with one of her blind students. To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/ (Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art.Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists.All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up again with Dr Aaron McPeake, artist and Associate Lecturer at Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts in London and one of the Curators of the exhibition this time to talk about his commissioned work that will be on display in Leeds.To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/(Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art. Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists. All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with the three Curators of the exhibition Professor Ken Wilder, Professor of Aesthetics at the University of the Arts in London, Dr Aaron McPeake, artist and Associate Lecturer at Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts in London along with Dr Clare O’Dowd, Research Curator at the Henry Moore Institute to find out more about this ground braking fully accessible exhibition and some of the Artists work that will be on display too. To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/ (Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art. Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists. All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with partially blind writer Joseph Rizzo Naudi who has been collaborating with the artists and curators to ensure every work in the exhibition will be audio described, which forms a crucial part of the exhibition experience. To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/ (Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art.Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists.All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Fayen d'Evie as she says a blindish Artist, Writer, Publisher and Lecturer about her collaborative immersive sculptural installation for the exhibition. To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/(Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art.Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists.All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up again with Professor Ken Wilder and this time to talk about his commissioned work for the exhibition and how he sees sighted people gaining from exploring art through all their senses apart from sight.To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/(Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art.Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists.All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with David Johnson, a blind artist who through his work provokes and challenges people’s expectations of art.To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/(Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

For the first time the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds will be hosting an exhibition of contemporary sculpture designed to be experienced using multiple senses that move beyond the visual through the exhibition, ‘Beyond the Visual’ which will open on 28 November 2025 and run until 19 April 2026. The exhibition celebrates the work of both blind and non-blind artists who through their work challenge the dominance of sight in the making and appreciation of art. Works on display will include seven new commissions plus historical and contemporary work by sixteen international artists. All of the work in the exhibition can be experienced through more than one sense, including the sometimes forbidden act of touch. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with Sam Metz, artist and curator based in the north of England with low vision about their commissioned work for the exhibition and what works best for them around access and interacting with work on display in galleries and museums. To find out more about the ‘Beyond the Visual’ exhibition at the Henry Moore Institute from 28 November 2025 to 19 April 2026 do visit - https://henry-moore.org/whats-on/beyond-the-visual/ (Image shows the Beyond the Visual logo. A black circle on a yellow background in which is written in the same yellow as the background 'Beyond' on one line, 'the Visual' on the line underneath and slightly to the right, and yellow braille dots representing the word 'sculpture' underneath)

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 recent Eye Care Support Pathway event, there’s a look ahead to a Parliamentary reception and a big gathering to discuss employment and the Charlie Mayfield report for the UK Government. 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 Show CEO of RNIB, Matt Stringer, Matt Is Wearing Glasses And A Grey Jacket.

Hair & Care are hosting a Webinar on 18th November on empowerment, inclusive beauty & fashion, and the power of self-care. It will feature their founder Anna Cofone, along with a panel of blind and partially sighted activists, influencers and industry professionals.Amelia spoke to Amie Douglas to learn more...Book your place here - Hair & Care | WebinarImage 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 the next of his regular audio described theatre reviews. This time we are celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic novel ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ as the current tour of the spectacular West End production visited the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre with description by Professional Audio Describer Remy Lloyd. About ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love. Celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic novel, watch ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ come to life in this spectacular production – a delight for all ages. For more about the tour of ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ including dates and times of performances do visit - https://www.lionwitchonstage.com/tour-dates And for more about access at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre do visit - https://www.grandtheatre.co.uk/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)

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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)

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.

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

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)

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.

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)

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.

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.

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.

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)

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

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)

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

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)

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)

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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’.

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.

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]

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.