Being unable to access information is one of the biggest barriers to inclusion and independence identified by blind and partially sighted people and it's a crucial component of being part of society. RNIB's Talking Newspaper and Magazine Service delivers over 250 publications in accessible formats to help people who can't read print keep up to date with what's going on.
Keep informed with talking newspapers and magazines
John Godber, who is head of products and publications at RNIB and himself almost totally blind, told us:
"Newspapers and magazines keep you in touch with what is going on in the world around you generally but also in any area that you are particularly interested in. It's a great way of keeping yourself informed and up to date."
RNIB's talking newspapers and magazines offer the opportunity to access information independently, so that blind and partially sighted people can keep themselves informed and involved with their communities without having to rely on outside help.
Listening to talking newspapers and magazines enables blind and partially sighted people to keep up to date with interests and hobbies including cookery, photography, fishing, wildlife, music, gardening and women's interests.
We offer CD titles, which can be played on any domestic CD player and some Daisy talking book discs that contain several titles. Publications can be downloaded in MP3 format. This means they can then be played on any digital device. Alternatively they can be accessed via our electronic full text service, available via email or web download onto a computer or mobile phone.
Kath Borland, subscriber:
"The one thing that I really would have missed is the classical music magazine because I'm a musician and I've taken that magazine from the very first issue. I used to read it absolutely cover to cover so I was very delighted that you do it."
Mark Smith, subscriber:
"Talking newspapers has made such a difference to my way of life over the years I have been a listener. I can't thank them enough for the service and support they have provided."
Subscribe to RNIB's Talking Newspapers and Magazines Service
If you are interested and would like to find out more about RNIB's Talking Newspapers and Magazines Service, please contact our helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email legacyservices@rnib.org.uk.