Royal National Institute of Blind People

All of the major disability charities have a strong web presence and the RNIB are no exception to this.  The aim of the RNIB is to support blind and partially sighted people and they advertise a variety of ways that they can do this on their site.  There is a wealth of information on the site itself and they advertise a dedicated helpline on: 0303 123 9999.

The site is easy to navigate, split into sections for blind and partially sighted people, professionals working with blind and partially sighted people and general education and information about eye problems and conditions.  If you are unsure which part of the site is going to be most useful for you, there is an alternative method of navigation based around the visitors background and reason for visiting.

Of course, there is also loads of information about the work of the RNIB as well as clear ideas for getting involved and donating money.

Shop Online

The shopping section of the website is particularly impressive.  Many charity websites have sections that are full of “useful gifts and accessories”.  It often appears that little thought has been put into the wares on offer, that they are there just in the hope that someone might be tempted to buy.  I’m sure you’ve seen several sites with mugs and tea towels that can only be distinguished by the name of the “Good Cause” on the front.

The RNIB is different though.  There is nothing on the site that doesn’t have true value and I’m sure there are many items that it would be difficult to find elsewhere.  Here, you will find everything from watches and clocks, kitchen accessories and computing equipment to audio players and magnifiers plus a huge amount more.

Books

There is also a dedicated book section which looks like a kind of lending library for audio books.  Without going into too much detail, the system involves an annual subscription which entitles members to download and play any number of books from the site (although you can only have 5 at a time).  If you prefer, you can ask for a copy of these books to be sent out on CD instead of streaming it directly to your computer.  There is also a range of Large Print Books available through the scheme.

Conclusion

The RNIB site is well worth a visit if you have an interest either as someone who is blind or partially sighted or someone who want to find out more.  There is a lot of information about the charity, the work they do and how you can get involved with fundraising or other work that the charity does.

The shop has a variety of products aimed primarily at people with sight problems but that could be of interest to a wider audience.  As an example, I bought a dosette style pill organiser a couple of years ago.  It was the only place I could find what I wanted.  Two compartments a day for a week.  It’s still doing sterling service.  Just as well really, they no longer sell them!

Website

http://rnib.org.uk