Leisure in Focus is a publication from RNIB produced to illustrate how other groups, organisations and individuals can replicate the Leisure Link project, a 'leisure buddy' scheme that has been running in East Sussex since 1999.
There are chapters on practical tips, hints and ideas on how to run leisure classes for blind and partially sighted people, with a host of ideas for activities, sports and general leisure pastimes.
The book offers practical advice on running sessions for blind and partially sighted people. There are sections on providing transport, recruiting and training volunteers, teaching tips and techniques. There are quotes and anecdotes from tutors, volunteers and participants on a variety of topics from pottery to pilates!
This practical guide an invaluable tool for leisure officers, activity organisers, tutors and blind and partially sighted people themselves. It features the work and experiences of many blind and partially sighted people in East Sussex.
Extracts and tips from the book
Pottery in focus
Chris Dutton is partially sighted with an eye condition that affects her central vision. Chris attends a pottery class with Leisure Link at the Connaught Adult Education Centre in Hove.
"When I first started the classes I was amazed, it just felt so right, it set me on fire and I don't stop talking about pottery these days. Working with the clay is so tactile and I like being able to use my hands in this way. Its also good to learn a new skill. I feel a real sense of achievement.
I've made a few mistakes including glazing my pot in the wrong solution. It was slip and not glaze, but fortunately slip washes off. In the future the tutor is going to put larger labels on the solutions."
Chris's advice for others thinking of starting pottery
"Give it a go and take your time. I spent the first two classes thinking, 'How can I get out of this?' I was really nervous before my first class and was looking at ways to get out of going. When I did get started I felt quite frustrated, as my first efforts didn't turn out as I wanted them to. Now I love it and just wish that I had started years ago!"
Pottery ideas
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Coloured clay may be easier to see than grey clay.
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If you don't have access to kilns use self-hardening clay or dough.
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Tactile items such as shells, seeds, leaves and paper patterns make interesting patterns in the clay.
Mosaic in focus
Kathleen Hawkins was in the mood for something new. She was rather tired of knitting and crochet, so when the opportunity to do mosaic came along, she eagerly took it. "I had misgivings because it was something completely new that I'd never really thought I could do and I wondered if I'd be able to cope, but I was willing to try.
Over the years I've done quite a lot of arts and crafts. I was headmistress of a primary school for many years and had to turn my hand to many things.
The first thing I worked on in a mosaic class was a round mat with a sunflower drawn on it and I enjoyed fitting the tiles together. I couldn't see the colours very well but the teacher explained the different shades to me. I could see them in my mind and was able to build up the pattern."
Mosaic ideas
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It is advisable to wear safety glasses or other protective eyewear.
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It is best to use non-reflective ceramic tiles. They are more versatile in that they do not have a right or wrong side and they do not have sharp edges even when cut.
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Start with fairly simple and quick projects, such as covering plant pots with pre-cut squares.
How to obtain the publication
Leisure in Focus is available in large print (PR12004P), braille (PR12004B), on disk (PR12004D) and on audio tape (PR12004T) for just £7.50 and can be ordered from our Online Shop or
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