RSBC Unseen (Royal Society For Blind Children)

We have been super busy in the last few months, readying our brand-new Life Without Limits Centre.
A place for visually impaired young people to come together for learning and support.
Check out the coverage of our opening day, and what is new about this new building.
Please note our head offices are now here, the address is:
Registered Office: RSBC, Life Without Limits Centre, 10 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6EN
Why not drop by and say hello when you are next in London Bridge!

This month the Youth Forum is discussing Employment, with special guess Carla from the RSBC Employment team.

What is it like finding work as a visually impaired person? Learn about the good, and the bad by listening.

At RSBC we offer a bespoke employment program , helping young visually impaired professionals obtain the skills to find jobs.

We have worked with Google, Meta, TFL, and other organizations to find out what employers are looking for.

If you are between the age of 16 to 25, please get in touch via our website or social media if you want us to help you find work!
https://www.rsbc.org.uk/

You can learn more about the Blind Person's Tax allowance here:
https://www.gov.uk/blind-persons-allowance

We had a jam pack summer here at the RSBC, from music creation with a professional composer, to outdoors adventures, where some of us got really wet!

This episode features some of our young people and volunteers sharing their highlights of the summer.

You too can sign up to the range of activities going on every month here at the RSBC by visiting:
https://www.rsbc.org.uk/calendar-of-activities/

In this episode of RSBC Unseen, we explore the topic of transitions. Join us as we hear from Rona and Camille, who share their personal experiences of moving from mainstream school to a college for the visually impaired and from France to England respectively.
Rona will take us through her journey of adjusting to a new learning environment and the challenges she faced, as well as the support systems that helped her through this transition. Camille, on the other hand, will talk about the cultural differences she encountered and how she adapted to her new home.

Whether you're going through a change yourself or simply interested in learning about the experiences of others, this episode is for you. Get ready to be inspired and gain insights into the complexities and rewards of navigating transitions. Don't miss out on this exciting and informative episode of RSBC Unseen!

In the latest episode of RSBC Unseen, hosts Zenny, Kaya, and Charlotte dive into the topic of finances. They discuss the challenges faced by young people when it comes to accessing their own money and offer valuable tips on how to avoid common mistakes. The trio also provides insights into which banks are accessible and how to navigate the often-confusing world of finance. Join them as they explore this essential topic and empower listeners to take control of their finances.

In this week's captivating episode of the RSBC Unseen podcast, hosts Ikra and Kaya embark on an eye-opening journey as they delve into the world of radio broadcasting with a remarkable guest, Banaris Iqbal. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years, Banaris is not only an experienced radio DJ but also a valued member of the management committee at Bradford Community Broadcasting Radio.
Tune in as Ikra and Kaya engage in an enlightening conversation with Banaris, who will share invaluable tips and insights on the challenges and triumphs of being a broadcaster when visually impaired. With his infectious passion for radio and an unwavering determination to overcome obstacles, Banaris opens up about his personal journey, revealing the incredible ways he has mastered the art of broadcasting without the use of sight.
Through this thought-provoking episode, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the innovative techniques and tools employed by blind broadcasters, highlighting the immense talent and resilience within the visually impaired community. Banaris's wealth of experience will undoubtedly inspire aspiring broadcasters, while offering a fresh perspective on the transformative power of radio as an inclusive medium.
Join RSBC Unseen as they amplify the voices that often go unheard and uncover the untold stories of those who defy expectations. This eye-opening episode promises to challenge preconceived notions and ignite a newfound appreciation for the incredible abilities of blind broadcasters. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that will forever change the way you perceive the world of radio.

What does friendship mean to you ?
In this month’s podcast we had a great time discussing friendship as we approach friendship week. It was a pleasure to have Camille and Carla from Sisterhood join us to share their take on the importance of friendship and how Sisterhood has been the perfect place for young women to cultivate authentic friendships.
Throughout the episode, our hosts delve into the diverse aspects covered by the Sisterhood program. From teaching makeup application to haircare techniques, the program equips young blind females with essential skills, ensuring they can navigate through various social and personal experiences with self-assurance.
If you are a young visually impaired woman eager to explore new opportunities and embrace life to the fullest, this podcast episode is a must-listen!

Additionally, if you wish to join the sessions, please email connections@rsbc.org.uk.

Welcome to  the RSBC Unseen podcast focusing on the unique journey of parenting as a blind parent. Zenny, our host, is joined by three extraordinary blind parents, each navigating their parenthood journey in their own distinct ways. They transparently share their  challenges, positive and negative experiences as well as advice for other blind  parents.

Welcome to the very first episode of the TechMates podcast, featuring hosts Alex and Juliette, delving into the fascinating world of technology for visually impaired people.

Put simply, it is just 2 mates, having a chat about tech! 

In this debut episode, they'll explore how artificial intelligence could enhance the daily lives of the VI community, from taking silly photos to the pitfalls of AI. It's an episode you won't want to miss!

If you enjoyed TechMates, please let us know by dropping us a review.

Be a part of the discussion, by tagging us on socials:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RSBCcharity/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RSBCcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/RSBCcharity/

Hello, hello; and welcome to a brand-new podcast from RSBC!
Our Audiobook Club is here to talk about their latest read, Lil' Muffin Drops the Mic by comedian Romesh Ranganathan!
How does, cooking, Hip-Hop, and comedy go together?
Let ABC tell you!

RSBC Audiobook Club is a weekly session ran remotely. Listen to your favourite books from the comfort of your home, meet new friends, and join in on fun discussions and quizzes. You can even help create audiobook sessions based on the chosen book.
When we finish a book, we hold exciting nominations and votes to pick the next one.
Our audiobook club meets at the usual time, from 5pm to 6pm, Mondays and Thursdays. If you're between 8 and 25 years old, don't miss out! Sign up now to find out more!
https://www.rsbc.org.uk/calendar-of-activities/?utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=&utm_term=&utm_content=&gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIuYr-jq7YhgMVMpJQBh3a2QG4EAAYASAAEgLka_D_BwE

On this Pride-themed episode of the Youth Forum’s Unseen Podcast, the RSBC’s LGBTQIA+ Youth Group discuss what it means to inhabit the intersecting spaces of vision impairment and queerness. We also talk about our queer icons, and the group’s plans for the future.

Join Al-ameen, Charlotte and Justin as they discuss how they've been coping with lockdown as VI young people. From cooking and shopping, to dogs and exercise, we cover it all! 

*Please note - this episode was recorded on Friday 8th May - whilst we were still fully in lockdown in England. 

This month we cover all things TRAVEL! What's it like to use public transport as a blind and partially sighted young person? Listen to Charlotte, Justin and Kaya as they give you the ins and outs of getting around. 

Have any questions for our podcasters? Don't hesitate to send them in! Email sally.carpenter@rsbc.org.uk and we'll answer them on the next episode. 

Join Al, Charlotte and Justin as they disucss the do's and don'ts around interacting with the blind and partially sighted community. We talk about guiding gone wrong, when not to touch a guide dog, how not to hover when a blind person is cooking and more!

Today on RSBC Unseen, Charlotte and Kaya talk about losing their sight in their teens, how they coped and hopefully some tips for others going through the same thing. They're also joined by a special guest this episode, Sally, who works for RSBC and leads on the Youth Forum!

Its a brand new edition of the RSBC Unseen Podcast. We're coming at you with a TECH edition! Our Assistive Technology Guru Alex brings you the ins and out of EVERYTHING tech related plus listen out for some special guests further down the line!

This month Alex talks about the differences in tech when interacting with another human and interacting with AI.

If you have any questions for Alex, let us know and he will answer them on the next episode!

Alex Man is an Assistive Technology Trainer for the RSBC, he specialises in user testing and accessibility.

Today we get random! Join Zenny and Al where they talk about A LOT of different subjects - from Halloween and Jinns, gender, travel, different cultures, the best way to make tea AND more! 

Live Events! We love them and we miss them! Today we talk about attending all types of live entertainment events like theatres, festivals, concerts and stand up comedy shows! Justin, Charlotte and Rebecca recall their fave festival experiences and dealing with portaloos, accessibility and carer tickets, the price of festival food, theatre touch tours and much more!

This edition Justin, Kaya and Rebecca discuss all things food! From their favourite dishes to cook, restaurant and take away experiences and some tips and tricks for cooking whilst living with sight loss, they've got you covered. 

RECORDED - December 2020

Hello hello!

Alex is back with some more tech in the kitchen, grab your ingredients and the fire extinguisher and let us cook some food!

Charlotte from the Youth Forum also joins us for a little chat on the technique she uses.

Devices used:

Talking Kitchen Scale

Amazon Echo

Tefal Air Frier

Amazon Microwave (not out in the UK yet)

iPhone with Seeing AI and Be My Eyes app

If you have any questions on using or how to get these products please reach out.

Until next time...

This time Kaya and Charlotte speak to special guest Sally, who works for RSBC and helps out the Youth Forum, about all things sports! We talk about tennis, boccia, goal ball, trampolining, running and even wrestling! We talk about adapting sports and how you can get involved as a young VI person. 

Do you have a question for the Youth Forum? Send it to us and we'll answer it next time on RSBC Unseen!

Alex is back with another Tech episode of RSBC Unseen! Today he talks about apps and tech around sports and fitness, including equipment, watches and more. 

Have any burning Tech questions? Send them our way and Alex will answer them on the next episode!

Today our resident musicians from the Youth Forum, Justin and Zenny, are joined by special guest Andre Louis to talk all things music! Braille sheet music, youtube, getting started, tools and equipment playing music whilst VI, going in the studio, they've got it all covered.

if you have any questions for the Youth Forum, please send them to - sally.carpenter@rsbc.org.uk

Learn how to make some music with a Mac and Logic Pro in this episode of the Unseen Tech Podcast; where we are joined by special guess pianist Kevin Satizabal.
Learn what equipment, the setup, and accessible tricks to create music accessibly.
Do you feel musically creative? Why not join our Creative Project at the RSBC, where you will work with other visually impaired young people to create some amazing music!
If you have any questions please reach out to me directly alex.man@rsbc.org.uk

Check out Reaper, the Windows version of Logic, please let us know if you want a podcast recording of this:
https://reaperaccessibility.com/index.php/Useful_Links_and_Resources

If you are enjoying the podcast, we will greatly appreciate if you left us a review!

You can learn more about Kevin by following his Twitter.
You can try and listen to Alex’s horrible singing on the Wellerman Community Project here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQ2HbYnlc3s&t=68s

We're doing things a little bit differently this month, with our latest episode being the audio from the RSBC Youth Forum's Facebook livestream to launch our brand new, monthly e-newsletter for children and young people - Centre Stage!

Join Sally and 6 members of the Youth Forum as they talk about the work they've done during lockdown, the Centre Stage newsletter and why we think it's important, what to expect from it as well as finding out more about the Youth Forum members themselves, one of them is a thrill seeker, find out who!

To sign up to centre stage please follow this link: https://www.rsbc.org.uk/centre-stage-newsletter/

Note: Centre Stage is for blind and partially sighted young people aged 8 - 25 years.

Are you constantly losing things?

Apple has released their long awaited AirTag, an item tracker to help you locate items.

However, in this month’s Unseen Tech podcast, Alex has ‘found’ some interesting ways that you can possibly use these £30 trackers to help you if you have a visual impairment.

Let us know what other useful ways you can think of using an AirTag!

If you enjoy these demos, please leave us a review, it really helps the podcast grow!

We are back!
Join our Youth forum as they discuss life after lockdown; what are they looking forward in doing, what was taking the vaccine like, and even more topics.

The good, the bad and the funny!

You can always share your thoughts on the podcast, by reaching out on our social medias @RSBCCharity.

Join the RSBC Youth Forum this month as they discuss accessibility in film and media.

How to get a discount when visiting the cinema with a friend when you are visually impaired?

Do you use audio description, what happens when it fails us, please share your story with us and we will read it in out in our next episode.

If you have time, please do leave us a review, as it really help our little podcast grow.

Thank you and see you next month!

~ RSBC Youth Forum

Hungry?

Whether you are ordering a cheeky takeaway or eating out, maybe not the latter given the state of things, we would love to hear your experience.

This month’s Youth Forum podcast is sharing their experience when eating out, what horror stories do they have when visiting eateries, can you relate?

Thank you for tuning in and hope you have a merry Christmas!

~ The RSBC Youth Forum