Connect: Young people and families

Charlie smiling

Student bullied for his sight loss embarks on the journey of a lifetime

14-year-old Charlie Beeston has faced many challenges at school due to his sight loss. Charlie shares how this experience led to him winning a competition to go to South America.
Sofia looking to the left and standing against a blackboard.

How can a visually impaired student see the board at university?

PhD student, Sofia Qvarfort explains how she used technology to help her participate in lectures and seminars at university.
Alexia Slone stands in front a Classic FM media wall or backdrop with the bust of a famous classical composer next to her

The composer

Alexia Sloane started composing music when she was 12 years old. Now, five years later, she is one of the country’s most talented young composers. She is the first female to win the Cambridge Young Composer of the Year and is the only blind member of the National Youth Orchestra. Here, she explains her story.
Amy and her guide dog Bingo who is a golden Labrador Retriever cross

Amy: living with Usher Syndrome

Connect member, Amy, shares her moving experience of living with Usher Syndrome, which was diagnosed when she was a teenager. She tells us how she was bullied at college and has now found a true friend in her guide dog, Bingo. 
Image shows Stephen Asher smiling

“As horrible as the bullying was, it didn’t break me”

20-year-old Stephen Asher from Scotland shares his emotional story of being bullied throughout school because of sight loss and how he wouldn't go back to change a thing because now he's stronger than ever.
Photo of dried oranges with cinnamon sticks

How to make scented Christmas decorations

Looking for a fun activity to do with the family this Christmas? Sarah-Jane, a teacher from RNIB College Loughborough, talks through how to make scented decorations.
Image shows Keely laying on grass with her guide dog, Izzy

Challenges I face as a blind university student

Being a university student is hard enough, but Keely Grossman has to deal with more than most due to being blind. Keely opens up to try raise awareness of sight loss among her sighted peers.
Photo of Allan in his graduation robe

From Baghdad to the bar: a blind refugee's journey

How did a baby born blind in a war-torn country become a top student at a world-leading university? Georgina Rannard and Hannah Gelbart from BBC News share Allan’s amazing story.
Joe with his three kids

“What do you mean I’ve got poo on my forehead?”

Joe Kenny, father of three, shares the joys of parenting with sight loss and the shortcomings of the health and social care system.

Children, young people and families services

For blind and partially sighted children and young people, including those with complex needs, RNIB offers:

  • Specialist advice and guidance
  • Family, early years and transitions support
  • Schools, college and residences
  • Information and networks
  • Products, toys and games
  • Books, magazines and curriculum materials

Find out more

 

Insight Online: The essential read for education professionals who support children and young people with vision impairment.

We bring together what you need to know so you can provide the best support possible for your learners, including:

  • Ideas to engage students in the classroom
  • Tips to promote mobility, independence and wellbeing
  • Shared experience from your professional community

Go to Insight Online

Boy with vision impairment in class