13th December 2023
Question one: how do VI travellers navigate planes (and other forms of long distance transport) as every plane or train is differently arranged and Therefore unfamiliar. Toilets etc. can be difficult to navigate.
recommendations: every VI traveller, especially if they have booked assistance has the right to ask to be shown where everything they need is located. Well trained and welcoming staff should be more than happy to assist. don’t be embarrassed about asking for help, it is one of the many jobs the staff are there for!
Question two: the “Dial-a-Ride” app is easy to use, but there is not a place to add additional requirements e.g. mobility aids?
Recommendations: leave a review on the App Store with regards to this and/or contact Dial-a-Ride to Feed this back to them directly. Their contact details can be found in this link https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/dial-a-ride/
Question three: in a restaurant, how do you attract the waiters attention if you are totally blind?
Recommendations: methods vary amongst members with some being comfortable to raise their hand or say “excuse me “”if they can hear a member of staff close by. Other suggestions were to speak to the waiter upon arrival and agree a discrete sign e.g. moving something to a particular place on your table to indicate that you need help or wish to order something else.
Question four: what tips do members have four keeping safe within the home?
Recommendations: Some members have attended a fire and carbon monoxide awareness seminar. VIPs may be eligible for a Home Safety Visit from their local fire brigade. if you are in London, these can be booked by calling: 0800 028 4428 or by visiting https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/the-home/book-a-home-fire-safety-visit/
In other parts of the UK, please contact your local fire service.
NB Carbon monoxide detectors Should be purchased from reputable DIY stores or supermarkets. The LFB advice is to buy alarms that have been certified to British Standard EN50291 and have the British or European approval mark, such as the Kite Mark.
if you are at risk of falls, Age UK has several different options that can be worn around your neck or wrist https://www.ageuk.org.uk/products/mobility-and-independence-at-home/personal-alarms/
Question five: what tips do members have for visually impaired video content creators? It is sometimes difficult to know whether you are facing the right way , whether you’re face/head are centred etc.?
Recommendations: members suggested that a landscape view may be easier to work within and that keeping the camera in a fixed position would help.
Top tip: view “The Blind Life” channel at https://youtu.be/oN8Kw7yiGYU
This channel also has lots for android users so it is well worth taking a look.
Recommendation for iPhone users adjusting to the absence of a home button: if you are having problems using Face ID: ask Siri to turn the screen to full brightness to allow Face ID to “see “your face better. Having the screen curtain on limits this feature, so turn screen curtain off when you are not using it. also, in “Settings”, turn off “require attention for Face ID” .More details are available at this link https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/iphone/iph646624222/ios
Tactile braille screen protectors are available for iPhones. These may be these may be a great help to visually impaired people getting used to a phone before transitioning fully to VoiceOver. To view please visit this link https://www.speeddots.com/products/tactile-screen-protector-for-iphone
Tactile screen protector – iPhone SE2022, SE2020, 8, 7, 6S, 6
RNIB has a device called “In My Pocket”. This is an accessible, easy to use device that is ready to work straight out of its box. For more details call the RNIB helpline: 03031239999 or visit this link https://shop.rnib.org.uk/in-your-pocket-90293
In November’s Bounce , we discussed the work of the “Lions” an and that they may be able to offer practical or financial support to visually impaired people in their community. To contact your local Lions, please visit this link https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/start-our-approach/club-locator
Bounce will be back in 2024!