Lorna's 14 year old daughter Naomi was born with cerebral palsy, severe learning difficulties and blindness.
Unable to speak or see, Naomi has had difficulties in communicating with the people around her. Six months ago Lorna received funding for RNIB's Talking Book Service from her local authority and it's had an astounding impact on all of their lives.
"Talking Books are a lifeline for our family"
"Talking Books are a lifeline for our family. Naomi needs this because she can't communicate or listen." Lorna believes that Talking Books are a vital therapeutic and educational tool for children and adults with disabilities: "She (Naomi) does listen intently - you know by the reaction on her face. For her to be able to lie and listen can teach her how to concentrate."
Not only is it a learning tool but for Naomi, who attends a specialist school, RNIB's Talking Books offer her a well earned break from every day life. "It's nice for her to lie and listen in bed, that's her space and her time out," says Lorna.
RNIB's trained librarians have been on-hand to help guide Lorna through the choices of books that she can make for Naomi, which prevents her from adding another paperwork burden to her day. "At first I wasn't sure what sorts of books would be suitable for her," but following advice from RNIB's trained staff who recommended all kinds of appropriate books, from Beatrix Potter to Harry Potter, Naomi now goes through two or three books per week.