RNIB Tech for Life Fair

The Europa is ideally situated next to the main transport hub, Great Victoria Street Station, with both train and bus access. Sighted guides will be available at key points between the transport hub and the venue.

With the ongoing possibility of industrial action affecting public transport, we will be providing buses for customers who have no other means of travel to and from the event. We would ask that anyone who can attend independently, or with the help of friends and family, does so to ensure those most in need can avail of this service.

12-seater minibuses will leave the locations outlined below to arrive at the Europa Hotel in Belfast for approximately 11.30am. They will depart the venue at 3.30pm sharp. The cost of the service will be covered by RNIB and is on a first come, first served basis. To book, please email [email protected] or call 0751 007 4530.

• Ballymena
• Coleraine
• Cookstown
• Derry~Londonderry
• Newry
• Enniskillen

No pre-booking is required for this free event.

The biggest names in assistive technology including Optelec, OrCam, Dolphin, Sight and Sound and Human Ware will be on hand to guide you through the latest in accessible apps, products and tools designed for those with a vision impairment. Key organisations in the sight loss sector, such as Guide Dogs, Centre for Independent Living and, of course, RNIB will also be there to share their expertise.

Not all exhibitors take card payment therefore we advise you bring cash with you if you are likely to make a purchase.

Where possible, we try to ensure that we have sighted guides available at each of our events. However, as we rely heavily on volunteers, this cannot always be a guaranteed service. If you know you will need significant assistance, we recommend bringing a friend, family member or support worker with you.

As this is the first time this event has taken place, it’s difficult to gauge attendance. However, as a rule of thumb, the event is likely to be quieter over lunchtime and from 6pm.

The Europa Hotel bar will be open to non-residents or there is a selection of coffee shops, cafes and restaurants on the main Great Victoria Street just outside the venue.

Yes, we will have a ‘Tech Up Surgery’ manned by our Tech for Life volunteers and also a programme of short talks throughout the day.

Yes. Glengall Street can be accessed via doors at the back exit of the Exhibition Centre. Please advise a member of staff as the main floor alarm will need to be switched off.

RNIB NI staff will be hosting a Tech surgery table to mainly assist with quick assistive tech issues. If a longer appointment is required, you will be referred into the Tech for Life Team.

A wide range of exhibitors were invited to attend. If you have suggestions for suppliers who could be approached for future events, please email them to [email protected].

The RNIB Products for Life store will be able to offer a 10% discount on the day. Any discount from other exhibitors is at their own discretion.

All age groups are welcome.

Yes, please request via [email protected] or call 07510074530.