Bus travel can be a lifeline for blind and partially sighted people. Many rely on buses to go about their day to day business. Buses help people with sight loss to maintain their independence as they are unable to drive, and taxis can be expensive for everyday journeys. That is why RNIB Scotland has been working with bus companies to ensure that drivers are aware of what makes a good journey from the perspective of someone who is blind or partially sighted. The sessions are called ‘Swap with Me’ and discussion is led by members of the blind and partially sighted community. There is also a practical element to the sessions with drivers and RNIB Scotland participants getting a chance to experience what a bus journey is like from each other’s point of view. RNIB is currently working with Lothian Buses in Edinburgh and volunteers are needed to make sure the sessions run smoothly and provide sighted guiding to facilitators. Volunteers will help guide the discussions and when required offer guided support to the participants. Training and support will be offered as part of RNIB’s volunteer induction process. Reasonable expenses will be available to fulfil the role.

RNIB wants to test the use of WhatsApp to be able to reach blind and partially sighted people who have previously never accessed our services. The role is simple. You agree to us sending you WhatsApp messages from RNIB every month with details of activities and events available. By signing up to this role, you agree to then share the information with people you know either personally or professionally. The key is reaching more people with sight loss, so they are aware of what is available. Our aim is to reach people with different levels of vision and a variety of age groups and communities across the UK. Contact with RNIB’s customers is not part of this role.