RNIB Conversations

If you are thinking about jetting off for your summer holidays or just flying off within the UK for a weekend break, how accessible might air travel be for blind and partially sighted people and what about flying off with your Guide Dog or Assistance Dog too. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey caught up with John Welsman, Customer Experience Lead at Guide Dogs to talk about some of the access issues around air travel that have been reported to Guide Dogs plus all about their recent visual awareness training for Virgin Atlantic cabin and airline staff. If you would like to know more about flying with your Guide Dog or Assistance Dog there is a lot of information on the following Guide Dogs website pages - https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/information-and-advice/travelling-with-your-assistance-dog/ To find out more about the visual awareness training that Guide Dogs gave to Virgin Atlantic cabin and airline staff you can find out more on the following pages of the Guide Dogs website too - https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/blog/virgin-atlantic-and-guide-dogs-launch-partnership-to-improve-travel-for Image shows RNIB logo. Upon a green background, 3 rows of text. From top to bottom: RNIB, Connect Radio, 20th Anniversary. A bold white line underlines the words Connect Radio.

Time to connect with the natural world around us with nature guide Andy Shipley. In this episode we will be turning our ears to the sky and tuning into some of our aerial gymnasts. Plus, a sensory activity and some ways you can help wildlife at this time of year. Find the full Sensory Reflections Playlist here: Audioboom / Sensory Reflections With Andy Shipley on RNIB Connect Radio For more about Andy's work and to get in touch with him visit: Nature Connection And Sensory Immersion | Natural Inclusion (natural-inclusion.org) Find out how to build a wildlife pond: How to make a wildlife pond (rspb.org.uk) Image shows Andy standing outside in front of a tree. He's holding his white cane and is dressed for outdoor adventure in a grey hoodie, a cap, and a windproof jacket. Sound credits: 'COMMON SWIFT CALLS SOUND' via Quick Sounds, 'BUZZARD SOUND' via Quick Sounds, 'Swallows' via BigSoundBank.

Barry Snell chats to dancer and choreographer Holly Thomas, to learn about her exciting dance project Hal Light, which explores the often unchartered territory of dance and visual impairment.To learn more about the Half Light project herehollythomasdance.co.uk/projects/half-light/Image: Close up Picture of Holly standing up with her arms bent at the elbows pointing upwards. She is wearing a striped green top and her long brown hair is tied back in a pony-tail.

With the temperature rising and much more hours of sunshine now that we seem to be in summer time for this week’s check in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davy asks Elizabeth whether the sun is good or bad for us.Elizabeth also talks about the potential benefits of vitamin D from the sun and risks of skin cancer from being out too long in the sun.Elizabeth ends by giving her advice to us all about being careful when we are out and about in the sun and wanting to top up our tans this summer.You can find out more about sunscreen and sun safety on the following pages of the NHS website - https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/#:~:text=Sun%20safety%20tips,shade%20between%2011am%20and%203pmTo get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: Once on This Island - Saturday 10 June, 3pm, Open Air Theatre, Regent’s Park, London The Commitments - Thursday 15 June, 7.30pm, The Hexagon Theatre, Reading Abigail’s Party -Saturday 17 June, 2.30pm, touch tour 12.30pm, Darlington Hippodrome Pride and Prejudice (sort of) - Wednesday 21 June, 2.30pm, Norwich Theatre Royal The Ocean at the End of the Lane - Wednesday 21 June, 7.30pm, touch tour 5.20pm, New Theatre Oxford Animals, Art, Science and Sound - Monday 26 June, 6pm, British Library, London, To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell chats to Colin Sinclair from Behear audio and his daughter Amy, about their exciting audiobook service, which features dramatised stories and boasts of being like Netflix without the pictures. They were inspired to set up Behear after Amy was involved in a road accident which resulted in sight loss. To find out more about Behear audio click here Image shows RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo. Upon a green background 3 rows of text. 'RNIB' on top written in bold white capital letters, 'Connect Radio' below and underline with a thick white line and at the very bottom the words: '20th Anniversary.'

Time to connect with the natural world around us with nature guide Andy Shipley.This month, listen out for more birdsong as Andy tells us about the red list of endangered species in the UK. Plus, a bonus featuring some naughty hedgehogs.Find the full Sensory Reflections Playlist here: Audioboom / Sensory Reflections With Andy Shipley on RNIB Connect RadioFor more about Andy's work and to get in touch with him visit: Nature Connection And Sensory Immersion | Natural Inclusion (natural-inclusion.org)To support RSPB: The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)Image shows Andy standing outside in front of a tree. He's holding his white cane and is dressed for outdoor adventure in a grey hoodie, a cap, and a windproof jacket. Sound credits: 'Curlew Bird Sound' via mingosounds, 'EURASIAN SKYLARK SONG SOUND' via Quick Sounds, European Turtle Dove via xeno-canto, 'hedgehog sounds' via soundspunos.

For this week’s check in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow we are talking about constipation, a subject we may not want to talk about but we all should.Elizabeth began by telling RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about what the official definition of constipation is and the main causes of constipation too.Then Elizabeth explained to Toby about the different types of laxatives that are out there and some of the possible issues around the potential misuse of them. Finally Elizabeth highlighted how important it is for those of us who are in are over 50s to do the bowel test.There is more information about constipation on the following pages of the NHS website - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipationTo get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised

With reports of the increase in cases of Chickenpox in the news recently we thought for this week’s check-in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow we should focus on Chickenpox. Elizabeth began by explaining to RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about the connection between Chickenpox and Shingles and how ChickenPox is spread. Then to the itchy rash that people get with ChickenPox and how long the rash might last. Finally Elizabeth talked about the vaccines for chickenpox. You can find out more about Chickenpox by visiting the following pages of the NHS website- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chickenpox/#:~:text=Chickenpox%20is%20very%20itchy%20and,than%20once%2C%20but%20it%27s%20unusual To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk. Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: The Beekeeper Of Aleppo - Saturday 13 May, 2.30pm, touch tour 1.30pm, Theatre Royal Norwich Around the World in 80 Days - Thursday 18 May, 7.30pm, Richmond Theatre Titanic The Musical - Tuesday 23 May, 7.30pm, touch tour 6pm, Wycombe Swan Theatre, High Wycombe Six The Musical - Thursday 25 may, 8pm, Hull New Theatre Elvis Died of Burgers - Thursday 25 May, 7.30pm, Battersea Arts Centre, London A Mid Summer Night’s Dream - Saturday 27 May, 2pm, touch tour 12noon, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, London To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

Finding a community that understands what it’s like living without sight can be an amazing feeling. Eye Matter is a small visual impairment charity that does just that for its members, helping connect them through a variety of fun and exciting events. And they have lots of them coming up over the next couple of months. Our Paulina Kuchorew was joined by Eye Matter Coordinator, Suzie Simons, to find out more. To get in touch email: [email protected] Image shows RNIB Connect Radio Bright Green 20th Anniversary Logo. Upon a green background 3 rows of text. 'RNIB' on top written in bold white capital letters, 'Connect Radio' below and underline with a thick white line and at the very bottom the words: '20th Anniversary.'

Time to connect with the natural world around and this months it’s all about listening to birdsong and also being a little bit lazy. Find the full Sensory Reflections Playlist here: Audioboom / Sensory Reflections With Andy Shipley on RNIB Connect Radio For more about Andy's work and to get in touch with him visit: Nature Connection And Sensory Immersion | Natural Inclusion (natural-inclusion.org) Image shows Andy standing outside in front of a tree. He's holding his white cane and is dressed for outdoor adventure in a grey hoodie, a cap, and a windproof jacket. Sound credits: 'GOLDFINCH CALLS SOUND' via Quick Sounds, 'GREENFINCH SONG SOUND' via Quick Sounds, CHAFFINCH SONG SOUND via Quick Sounds.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter.Audio described shows and events included:Retrograde - Thursday 20 April to Saturday 27 May, 7.30pm, Kilne Theatre, London, British Library Monthly Art Workshops, starting Wednesday 26 April, 11am, British Library, LondonSucker Punch - Friday 28 April, 7.45pm, touch tour 6.15pm, Curve Theatre, LeicesterBlack Superhero - Saturday 29 April, 2.30pm, touch tour 1pm, Royal Court, London, Cut and Paste Exhibition, Friday 5 May, 2pm, The Francis Crick Institute, LondonThe Best Exotic Marigold Hotel - Wednesday 10 May, 7.30pm, touch tour 6pm, Royal & Derngate Northampton.To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk(Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

With the days starting to get longer now with lighter mornings and evenings, we are also coming into hay fever season. Knowing that many people are affected quite badly from hay fever for this week’s check-in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow we thought we would focus on hay fever. Elizabeth began by explaining to RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey that hey fever is an allergy and the different types of pollen that cause hay fever.Elizabeth then went on to talk about treatments for hay fever and, apart from the annoying symptoms, whether there are any dangers to health from having hay fever.Finally Elizabeth and Toby talked about whether anything at all could be done to prevent hay fever.You can find out more about hay fever by visiting the following pages of the NHS website - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hay-fever/ To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

With spring in full-bloom it's the perfect time to look at our gardens and what we could be doing in them.And joining our Paulina Kuchorew to share some of her best spring gardening advice is Julia Smith, Social Therapeutic Horticulturists with Charity Thrive.Get more gardening tips from Thrive here: Get gardening - ThriveImage shows daisies arranged in the shape of a heart atop a tree trunk.

For this week’s regular check in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow we are focusing on the part of the body we use every day, our feet and how to prevent some of those foot problems we get from time to time.Elizabeth began by telling RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about some of the foot injuries that some people seem to get. Then on to how important it is to look after your feet if you have diabetes. Elizabeth then explained to Toby what actually athlete’s foot is and how best to prevent athletes foot and treat the condition.Finally Elizabeth shared some recent research around marathon runners and Osteoarthritis and telling toby that he can’t use the condition as an excuse for not running a marathon!You can find out more about Osteoarthritis by visiting the following pages of the NHS website - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoarthritis/To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.ukImage: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

When things seem hopeless being able to reach out for support can make a world of difference.Amanda Whitfield was diagnosed with Stargardt’s disease a few years ago, but when her condition started getting worse in 2020 she reached out to charity Sight Scotland for help.There she met Community Worker Debbie McGregor, who has supported Amanda in getting back on her feet.Our Paulina Kuchorew spoke with both to hear their story.Image of Sight Scotland logo.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: Noughts & Crosses - Saturday 1 April, 2.30pm, touch tour 1pm, Curve Theatre, Leicester Quality Street - Wednesday 5 April, 7.30pm, Royal & Derngate Theatre, Northampton The Winter’s Tale - Wednesday 12 April, 2pm, touch tour 12noon, Sam Wannamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare’s Globe, London Bonnie and Clyde - Thursday 13 April, 7.30pm, Garrick Theatre, London Home, I’m Darling - Saturday 15 April, 2.30pm, touch tour 12.30pm, Theatre Royal Brighton The Beekeeper of Allepo - Wednesday 19 April, 7.30pm, touch tour 6.30pm, The Lowry, Salford To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

Time to connect with the natural world around us. On this month’s Sensory Reflections, Andy gives us an idea of what birdsong to listen out for as well as some crafty homework to help out our friendly neighbourhood hedgehogs.Find the full Sensory Reflections Playlist here: Audioboom / Sensory Reflections With Andy Shipley on RNIB Connect RadioFor more about Andy's work and to get in touch with him visit: Nature Connection And Sensory Immersion | Natural Inclusion (natural-inclusion.org)Image shows Andy standing outside in front of a tree. He's holding his white cane and is dressed for outdoor adventure in a grey hoodie, a cap, and a windproof jacket. Song credits: 'Dawn Chorus' by sean.townsend, bats.m4a.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: Girl From the North Country - Saturday 11 March, 2.15pm, touch tour 12.45pm, Curve Theatre, Leicester The Postal Museum - Audio described tour, Tuesday 14 March, 2.30pm, Postal Museum London Heathers the Musical - Thursday 16 March, 2.30pm, touch tour 12noon, Theatre Royal Brighton Medea - Saturday 18 March, 2.30pm, @Soho Place, London Northern Ballet The Great Gatsby - Saturday 18 March, 2.30pm, touch tour 12.15pm, Leeds Grand Theatre and Opera House and Saturday 25 March, 2pm, touch tour 11.45pm., Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield Mangler - Friday 24 March, 7.30pm, touch tour 6.30pm, The Lowry, Salford Quays, To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

As more and more people seem to be taking supplements such as vitamin D on a day to day basis, for this week’s regular check in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow, Elizabeth began by telling our Toby Davey whether we should be taking supplements routinely and do we actually need to take them. Elizabeth continued by explaining to Toby about why eating a proportion of fresh produce raw might be the best way to obtain some of the supplements we might need and even if you are eating a healthy diet how maybe taking vitamin D supplements could be of benefit and outlining the different types and strengths of vitamin D supplements. Elizabeth ended by highlighting research that was published in 2017 that suggested taking certain supplements might help to slow down the signs of Age Related Macular Degeneration. If you or you know someone who might be worried about Age Related Macular Degeneration you can find support and advice along with a webinar about Eat for your Eyes by visiting the Macular Society website- https://www.macularsociety.org/about/media/news/2022/july/eat-your-eyes-how-food-important-our-sight/ To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk. Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Barry Snell caught up with Anne Dignan, to talk about an upcoming event which will celebrate the art of storytelling….‘Tales Of Gallus Women’ will take place on the 11th March in Bellfield Community Hub, Portobello, Edinburgh.

Audio described theatre performances can be a brilliant way to enjoy a production without missing any of those all-important details. By describing stage design, costumes and make-up, movement and more, they can enhance the experience of a production making it accessible to visually impaired patrons.Vidar Hjardeng MBE is inclusion and diversity consultant for ITV News and he’s joining us once again for another one of his theatre reviews as he takes a look at Matthew Bourne’s gothic take on the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty.Find out more here: Sleeping Beauty | New Adventures (new-adventures.net)Image: Framed by a thicket of tangled tree branches, Aurora leaps forward in a white flowing gown, her arms out to the sides and her leg kicked back. From among the branches, six fairies and elves are emerging, dressed decadently in black and gold, and reaching towards Aurora. Around them all are red roses and rose petals, floating in the air and carpeting the floor. In a central opening in the thicket, a full moon can be seen shining through the trees.

In honour of Their Majesties’ service to the country, Royal Voluntary Service is launching the Coronation Champions Awards for volunteers, an official Coronation project.Together with Her Majesty The Queen Consort, the awards will celebrate extraordinary volunteers across the country who have been contributing to their communities.Barry Snell spoke with Fiona Longhurst from the Royal Voluntary Service to find out more.If you would like to find out more please visit www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.ukImage: Coronation Champions Awards logo. Grey spotlights shine from all directions at a gold crown with 'Coronation Champions Awards 2023' written in three rows below.

Time to connect with the natural world around us. On this month’s Sensory Reflections, Andy gives us an idea of what birdsong to listen out for as well as some crafty homework to help out our friendly neighbourhood hedgehogs.Find the full Sensory Reflections Playlist here: Audioboom / Sensory Reflections With Andy Shipley on RNIB Connect RadioFor more about Andy's work and to get in touch with him visit: Nature Connection And Sensory Immersion | Natural Inclusion (natural-inclusion.org)Find out more about building hedgehog cafes here: Feed hedgehogs in a DIY hedgehog café | The RSPBImage shows Andy standing outside in front of a tree. He's holding his white cane and is dressed for outdoor adventure in a grey hoodie, a cap, and a windproof jacket. Sound credits: 'Common Chiffchaff Song' via Quick Sounds (Common Chiffchaff Song Sound Effect MP3 Download Free - Quick Sounds), 'Song Thrush Singing' by field recording geek (song thrush singing.wav (soundcamp.org)

Last year Dave Heeley, OBE cycled 800 miles from Colditz castle to West Bromwich to raise money for charity, but since October he has been recovering from a knee operation.RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with the charity fundraiser, to talk about his ongoing recovery, plans for the future and life with new guide dog Peter.{Image = Close up photo of Dave wearing a red, white & blue bandana}

The Sheffield Adventure Film Festival will take place from 3rd till 5th of March 2023 and showcase the best new adventure, travel and extreme sports films from around the world.This year the festival is also making a push to increase inclusivity by making more of their films available with audio description and captions. Our Paulina Kuchorew spoke with Danielle Sellwood, who is the project lead and her daughter Poppy Levison, who was a consultant on the project.Find out more here: Sheffield Adventure Film Festival 2023 (shaff.co.uk)Image shows the festival logo. Atop a white background 'ShA' is written in capital letters with 'FF.' written below.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter.Audio described shows and events included:Peaky Blinders: the redemption of Thomas Shelby, Wednesday 22 February, 7.30pm, Royal & Derngate Theatre, NorthamptonSound of the Underground, Saturday 25 February, 2.30pm, touch tour 1pm, Royal court Theatre, London,The Lehman Trilogy, Monday 27 February, 7pm, Gillian Lynne Theatre, Drury Lane, London,Titus Andronicus, Saturday 4 March, 2pm, touch tour 12noon, sam Wanamaker Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, London,Fisherman’s Friends, Wednesday 8 march, 7.30pm, Theatre Royal Brighton, To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website- https://vocaleyes.co.ukImage: VocalEyes Logo

We seem to be hearing more in the news about Covid and thankfully not as severe as in the height of the pandemic. For this week’s check in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow Elizabeth outlines to our Toby Davey about recent research that suggests that changing our lifestyle could help protect us against covid. Elizabeth went on to explain some of the lifestyle changes we could all make to help protect us against Covid which might include being a bit more active and taking up some form of exercise too. Finally Elizabeth updated Toby on the current situation around some of the shortages of medicines in the Pharmacy. To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: The Ocean at the End of The Lane - Wednesday 8 February 7.30pm, touch tour 5.30pm, curve Theatre, Leicester The Mirror Crack'd - Thursday 9 February, 7.30pm, touch tour 6pm,Wycombe Swan Theatre, High Wycombe The King and I - Saturday 11 February, 2.30pm, Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury Choir of Man - Friday 17 February, 3.30pm, Arts Theatre, London Birmingham Royal Ballet: Swan Lake - Saturday 18 February, 2.30pm, touch tour 12.15pm, Birmingham Hippodrome To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

Time to connect with the natural world around us. On the first of his Sensory Reflections for this year, Andy tells us what we should keep an ear out for in nature including some robin song, and fox calls.Find the full Sensory Reflections Playlist here: Audioboom / Sensory Reflections With Andy Shipley on RNIB Connect RadioFor more about Andy's work and to get in touch with him visit: Nature Connection And Sensory Immersion | Natural Inclusion (natural-inclusion.org)Image shows Andy standing outside in front of a tree. He's holding his white cane and is dressed for outdoor adventure in a grey hoodie, a cap, and a windproof jacket. Sound credits: 'Robin Singing' BY SPANAC, 'Fox Calls' BY ALEXANDER.

Jon Gingerich began losing his sight while writing his debut novel The Appetite Factory. He shares his story with David Hogg.

The people who volunteer for RNIB are a talented group. Hywel Davies catches up with one volunteer from South Wales who's heading for your television screen this weekend. Michael McIntyre's Big Show is on BBC1 at 6:50, Saturday the 14th of January. If you miss the episode you can catch up on the BBC iPlayer.

As part of the celebrations for World Braille Day 2023 RNIB's Dave Williams chaired a discussion between Mary Fernandes from Cisco Systems, Christopher Patnoe from Google and Robin Spinks from RNIB. The panel discuss the various uses of braille and the future of the format.

Would you like to get away for some rest and relaxation? Maybe an action-packed adventure holiday is more your style. Hywel Davies has been speaking to one travel company that's making sure everything they do is accessible.For more information about Seable Holidays, visit www.seable.co.uk

With Christmas just around the corner, Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick gives us advice on pharmacy opening times, picking up repeat precriptions and also an update on Strep A and the current shortage of antibiotics .She is talking to RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell.To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick and for more help and advice you can either email [email protected], search for ‘Call the Pharmacy’ on Facebook or click on to https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Dr Elizabeth Farmer suffered from Sudden Traumatic Blindness brought on by Giant Cell Arteritis. She is now raising awareness for GCA.She shares her story with David Hogg.

Now for a bit of a festive roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter.Audio described shows and events included:Sleeping Beauty - Sunday 11 December, 1pm, touch tour 11.30am, Marlowe Theatre, CanterburyAladdin - Wednesday 14 December, 6pm, touch tour 4.30pm, Aylesbury WatersideMama Mia! - Thursday 15 December, 2.30pm, New Theatre OxfordA Christmas Carol - Friday 9 December, 7pm, Old Vic, London,A Christmas Carol - Thursday 15 December, 2.30pm, Bridge Theatre, London,A Christmas Carol - Saturday 17 December, 11.30am, Rose Theatre, Kingston, A Christmas Carol - Tuesday 20 December, 7pm, touch tour 5.30pm, Hull Truck TheatreDolly Parton's Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol - Thursday 22 December 7.30pm, touch tour 6pm, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, LondonAlice in Wonderland - Saturday 17 December, 1.30pm and 6pm, touch tour 4.30pm, Brixton House, LondonSix The Musical - Tuesday 20 December, 5pm, touch tour 4.15pm, Liverpool PlayhouseElf the musical - Thursday 29 December, 2.30pm, Dominion Theatre, LondonNorthern Ballet:The Nutcracker - Saturday 31 December, 2pm, touch tour 11.45am, Leeds Grand Theatre To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk(Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

For our next regular check in with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey asked Elizabeth about some of the causes and possible treatments for dizziness or vertigo that people do suffer from or experience from time to time.Elizabeth began by telling Toby about some of the main common forms of dizziness and how some medications do have dizziness as one of their potential side affects. Then Elizabeth talked about some of the medications that can help with dizziness and how the symptoms can also be treated by physical means.To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

VocalEyes, in partnership with Stagetext, Autism in Museums and the Centre for Accessible Environments, recently publish the Heritage Access report 2022 which highlights the importance of online access information for the UK museum and heritage sector, and tracks the changes in the state of access over the past four years since the publication of the 2018 report.The report is structured to mirror the visitor journey, covering aspects from pre-visit research such as finding and getting to a venue (such as directions, parking and step-free and level access), aids and facilities at the venue (such as toilets, lifts, Large Print guides, induction loops) and downloadable resources that can be used at the venue (such as sensory maps and visual stories).The report also breaks down the different media types in which web content is presented, and gives clear, non-technical guidance on how to ensure that text, links, images, video, audio, and downloadable documents are all accessible. It also covers tips for inclusive communication with visitors.VocalEyes also launched the Heritage Access 2022 benchmark tool, an online search and map interface where you can find the benchmark score for the access information provided by the 2,258 UK museums and heritage sites covered by the project.RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey was joined by Catrin Podgorski, VocalEyes heritage Access Project and Volunteer Manager of the Heritage Access Report and Vidya Nathan, one of the Visually Impaired Digital Heritage Access Report Volunteers to share some of the findings of the 2002 report.Catrin explained to Toby about the background to the heritage Access Report, some of the changes and improvements in online access information since the 2018 report, why VocalEyes wanted to recruit a remote online community of digital research volunteers including blind and partially sighted people along with other volunteers with a wide range of backgrounds and disabilities. Vidya told Toby why, as a visually impaired person, she wanted to get involved in the research as one of the digital research volunteers, why it was so good to be part of the online community of volunteers, some stand out points from the research for her as a visually impaired person and what we can all do as blind and partially sighted people to help improve both the online access information on museums, galleries and heritage sites websites and their access offer for us all too.(Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter.Audio described shows and events included:Art Workshops at the British Library - Thursday 10 November, to 1 December 11amNorthern Ballet’s The Nutcracker - Saturday 12 November, 2.30pm, touch tour 12.15pm, New Victoria Theatre, WokingDemon Dentist - Saturday 12 November, 2.30pm, Hull new Theatre, Marvellous, Thursday 17 November, 7.30pm, At Soho Place, LondonCinderella - Sunday 20 November, 3pm, touch tour 2.10pm, Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester Layers of Vision - Monday 21 November to Friday 16 December, Bush House, LondonTo find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk(Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

Have you heard of CBeebies' brand new series Dog Squad?Following the daily adventures of five superhero assistance dogs, Kika, Diesel, Meagaidh, Sylvie and Tinks, the series is here to help us better understand the wonderful impact these animals have on the lives of their families.The exciting show hits our TV screens today at 4 PM and to find out a bit more we spoke with Jayne Austin, producer at Hello Halo, the team behind the series.Catch the first episode of Dog Squad on CBeebies Monday 7th of November at 4 PM or later through the BBC iPlayer. Image shows the Dog Squad logo. A drawing of the 5 superhero dogs with 'DOG SQUAD' written across an orange dog bone under the pups. From left to right: Meagaidh the Border Collie, Kika the Golden Labrador, Newfoundland Sylvie, Cocker Spaniel Diesel, and finally Tinks the tiny Lhasa Apso.

CBeebies’ brand-new series Dog Squad is here to bring a team of true superheroes to our home screens!Following the lives of five superstar assistance dogs Kika, Diesel, Meagaidh, Sylvie and Tinks, the series will follow their adventures as they help their owners on important daily missions.The very first adventure will feature the lovely guide dog Kika and her owner, author and disability activist Dr Amit Patel. RNIB Connect Radio's Paulina Kuchorew spoke with Dr Patel about his experience and Kika's newfound fame. Catch the first episode of Dog Squad on CBeebies Monday 7th of November at 4 PM or later through the BBC iPlayer. Image shows the Dr Amit Patel sitting on a bench and smiling brightly. Kika stands next to him with a doggy grin as Amit gives her a much-deserved chin scratch.

As it is ‘Ask the Pharmacist Week’ this week (31 October to 7 November 2022), we thought it would be a good time to ask our resident Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow to give us the lowdown on what’s happening in the community pharmacy world.Elizabeth began by telling RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey about ‘Ask the Pharmacist Week’ which has the theme ‘Now at Your Local Pharmacy,' highlighting the services you can find at your local Pharmacy.Elizabeth also talked about the training that Pharmacist go through and the training for other staff at the Pharmacy before highlighting many of the services that are available from your local community Pharmacy.Elizabeth ended by reflecting on how the Covid pandemic had made many changes to your local Pharmacy service. For many people during all the Covid lockdowns the Pharmacy became their main health care service for support and advice.To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. Warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

Now for a round up of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter.Audio described shows and events included:In Plain Sight Exhibition - Thursday 20 October to Sunday 12 February 2023, Wellcome Collection, LondonDrunken Chorus - A Bit Of A Do Festival - Croydon, 21 to 29 OctoberJoseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - Thursday 27 October, 7.30pm, Edinburgh Playhouse TheatreSister Act - Saturday 29 October, 2.15pm, touch tour 12:45pm, Curve Theatre, LeicesterThe Book of Mormon - Saturday 29 October, 2.30pm, Sunderland EmpireTo find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk(Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

For this week’s Check In with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow we are focusing on some recent medical research which seems to indicates that reducing your alcohol intake could have a very positive effect of reducing incidence of cancer. RNIB Connect Radio’s Toby Davey began by asking Elizabeth to outline a bit more about this recent research. Then asking Elizabeth whether the NHS has a recommended drinking level that we should all follow, what actually is a unit of alcohol and are there any benefits at all to drinking alcohol, of course in moderation.To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.

With autumn settling across the UK, there's a great multi-sensory walk that could help you enjoy the wonders of nature. Joining our Paulina Kuchorew to tell us all about the multisensory nature walk in Chilterns is Andy Shipley from Natural Inclusion. The walk will take place on the morning of Friday 28th of October as part of the Chilterns Walking Festival. Find out more here: Chilterns Walking Festival - Chilterns AONB | Chilterns AONB Or get in touch with Andy via email: [email protected] Image is of a red and orange autumnal forest.

Now for a roundup of accessible arts events as RNIB Connect Radio's Toby Davey catches up with Jess Beal from VocalEyes, the national audio description charity providing access to the arts for blind and partially sighted people to share some of the accessible events that are featured in their weekly email newsletter. Audio described shows and events included: Grey Man by Oxford Playhouse Theatre - Online digital performances available from Monday 10 October to Saturday 5 November Little Women - Wednesday 12 October, 7.30pm, touch tour 6.30pm, Watford Palace Theatre Jews. In Their Own Words - Saturday 22 October, 2.30pm, touch tour 1pm, Royal Court Theatre, London The Marriage of Figaro - Tuesday 25 October, 4pm, Glyndebourne Opera, Lewes, East Sussex Blood Brothers - Thursday 27 October, 7.30pm, Liverpool Empire Theatre. To find out more about these and other up-coming audio-described arts events as well as details about how to sign up to the VocalEyes weekly email newsletter do visit the VocalEyes website - https://vocaleyes.co.uk (Image shows the VocalEyes logo. A speech bubble with 'VOCALEYES' written in bold black letters next to it)

The Visually Impaired (VI) Runners 10k Challenge recently returned to Bristol and RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell caught up with one of it's runners Teresa Cryer and also her guide runner Colin Johnson, to find out how they both enjoyed this years event.{Image - A group photograph of all the runners standing together looking very happy. It is a sunny day and they participants are all wearing colourful shorts and T-shirts, as well as the official race bibs with names and numbers on the front}

For this week’s Check In with Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick from New Life Pharmacy in Glasgow we are looking at the condition osteoporosis, what is it and what you should do if you are diagnosed with osteoporosis.Elizabeth began by telling Toby exactly what osteoporosis is, how painful the condition can be and whether the condition just something that more women seem to suffer from.Elizabeth ended by giving some good advice on what to do if you are diagnosed with osteoporosis.You can find out more details about the condition by visiting the osteoporosis pages of the NHS website - https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoporosis/To get in touch with Elizabeth Roddick email [email protected] or for more information visit https://newlifepharmacy.co.uk.Image: Picture showing Elizabeth standing in her pharmacy, dressed in her white pharmacist coat and a colourful bandana around her neck, she's smiling. warmly at the camera with her hands slightly raised.