At RNIB Connect Radio we’ve been catching up with blind and partially sighted people to hear how they are getting on during the coronavirus outbreak.

This time we spoke with Mark Pile, photographer and member of Blind Veterans UK , who fell ill with the virus a few weeks ago and is only just getting back on his feet.

For Mark's photography page visit: www.mip-photography.com

(Image shows a photo of Mark holding a camera)

With restrictions easing, eye health appointments will slowly resume.  

RNIB Connect Radio’s Steven Scott spoke with  President of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Prof. Bernie Chang to find out how these appointments will look.  

(Image shows a woman having her eye examined) 

A new research project from Microsoft and City University of London could help improve image recognition apps like Seeing AI or TapTap See.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew spoke with Lida Theodorou, one of the researchers behind the project to find out more.

For more information about the project visit: https://orbit.city.ac.uk/2020/05/04/phase-1-data-collection/ or contact: [email protected]

(Image shows a hand reaching towards four mugs sat atop a white counter)

Taking Flight Theatre Company wants to challenge perceptions of disability and disabled people and even in lockdown they continue to advocate for accessible performances. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew spoke with co-founder of the company, Elise Davison to find out how coronavirus affected their work.

For more information visit: https://www.takingflighttheatre.org.uk/  

Pharmacist Elizabeth Roddick discusses medicine shortages, due to the coronavirus.

She is talking to RNIB Connect Radio’s Barry Snell.

newlifepharmacy.co.uk

RNIB Connect Radio's Barry Snell chats with Tess Wareing,  Tess and her husband both contracted coronavirus within a week of the Government announcing  lockdown. Tess the spent seven day in hospital fighting for her life and is keen to praise the NHS for the care she received.

Image: RNIB See Differently logo written In Black with a pink line directly underneath the word RNIB

Long standing RNIB Cymru supporter Fay Jones started 2 groups on Anglsey. Fay continues to facilitate the groups during lockdown in Wales as they have now become phone groups.

Photo is of RNIB Cymru logo.

Can writing help overcome insecurities? What about learning to accept your sight loss?

RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew spoke with social media influencer Elin Williams about starting her blog five years ago and finding confidence through writing.

You can follow Elin's blog at: www.myblurredworld.com

Social Media can sometimes get a bed rep, but when used well it can be a valuable ally in breaking down stereotypes and raising awareness about sight loss. 

RNIB Connect Radio’s Paulina Kuchorew spoke with blogger Holly Tuke to find out how being part of the online community changed her life.

You can follow Holly's blog here: https://lifeofablindgirl.com/

(Image shows a smiling Holly)