BBC broadcaster surprised on air with RNIB award

This World Sight Day BBC Radio Foyle’s Mark Patterson was recognised for his efforts in supporting local blind and partially sighted people through his work in helping raise awareness of everyday challenges and realities of living with sight loss.

Local campaigner Rory McCartney, who experienced sight loss in his late 20s due to a stroke, presented Mark with the title live on air during a special World Sight Day broadcast on 10 October.

Rory said: “World Sight Day is a day for blind and partially sighted people to be recognised for everything they contribute to society. This year, it was also the perfect opportunity to recognise a local voice who has given me great advice and support over the last number of years since taking up the offer of a chat and guided walk around Derry blindfolded to get an idea of what it’s like to get about the city with sight loss.

“Sight loss is a spectrum. I describe myself as visually impaired: I have no sight in my right eye, but I can still manage to get about. With help from people like Mark giving us a space to share, people are talking about sight loss much more openly now, and that can only be a good thing.”

“As part of the ‘Visually Aware Space’ initiative currently underway between RNIB Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council, and North West Regional College, we are recognising local people who have really supported the cause, with DCSDC Mayor Councillor Ruairi McHugh last year, and Children in Crossfire/Drive 105’s Richard Moore previously.

“Since first meeting Mark and sharing my own personal experiences of sight loss, Mark has become a friend and ally in raising awareness of the daily challenges people with sight loss face every day. From crossing the road and navigating our streets safely, (with an accidental run in with the wing mirror of a van parked on the pavement that first guided walk), to coming along to report from our big Technology Fair in Foyle Arena this February, Mark has been key in raising awareness amongst the general public.”

Commenting on the unexpected recognition Mark said: “I am genuinely lost for words. That initial cup of tea with Rory changed my life. And going out with him blindfolded, it taught me so much. I was lost within the first three minutes. It really highlighted the extra effort it takes for people with sight loss to go about everyday life.

“And I’ve been amazed by what is possible with different inventions and technology out there now. How just switching on accessibility features on your smartphone can make a huge difference to people starting to struggle with their sight, how people with low vision can use technology to make everyday life at home, in education or work that bit easier.”

Mark added: “I’m honoured to be named RNIB’s Derry City Champion for this year. I’m really just doing my job but meeting people like Rory who has personal experience really does make you think, and if I can help anyone see sight loss differently, or reach out for support, I’m very happy to be able to do that.”

RNIB NI Director Robert Shilliday said: “At RNIB, our vision is for a world where blind and partially sighted people participate equally, and together we can break down the barriers for blind and partially sighted people that can hinder independence and inclusion, helping to create a more equal and accessible society.

“In Derry and Strabane there are 4,433 people living with sight loss that impacts daily life, with an estimated increase of 22.19% over the next decade.

“We are greatly encouraged by the Council’s commitment towards making the City and District a ‘Visually Aware' space, through the provision of training, information and best practice guidelines to our local and statutory bodies and local businesses, with some exciting pilot projects in the pipeline that everyone can get involved with.

“Public attitudes and misunderstanding of sight loss have been identified as a key barrier for blind and partially sighted people, particularly in the world of work. We look forward to addressing some of these misconceptions, increasing confidence in employing and providing services to blind or partially sight customers, alongside better understanding of simply living everyday life with a visual impairment and how local people can make a big difference through keeping pavements clear, offering support, and increasing awareness of the support RNIB provides anyone who has a friend or family member receive a diagnosis or sight loss. We’re here for everyone affected by sight loss.”

To learn more about RNIB’s services and campaigning work, visit rnib.org.uk/NorthernIreland, email [email protected] or call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999.