Latest news with #RoyalNationalInstituteofBlindPeople
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Daily Mirror
'Even my kids stopped saying "I'm bored" on this school trip for families'
Whether you have a family that likes to be on-the-go, or you're a parent who'd love to be on your child's school trip – or even if you struggle to think of ways to tire the kids out in the holidays – this grand old building could be just right for you, Usually a destination for residential school trips, former manor house JCA Condover Hall in the Shropshire countryside also opens its doors in school holidays for active families to stay for two, three or four nights, leaving screens behind and taking part in loads of activities. My husband Rob and I have three high-energy children and enjoy a challenge ourselves, so when I heard about JCA's Family Adventure holidays, I was keen to give them a go. Our children range from five to 12 years old so finding something to keep all entertained can be difficult. But when I discovered Condover Hall offers activities ranging from abseiling to axe throwing (over eights only), via a Mission Impossible-style laser assault course, I knew the usual holiday choruses of 'I'm bored!' would be unlikely to follow us here. Once we had settled into our rooms and had lunch, we were introduced to instructor Skip, who looked after us on all the activities throughout our stay. He was knowledgeable, patient and encouraging, and by the second day the kids were treating him as part of the family. Accommodation is in modern blocks close to the old manor house, which were fairly no frills, but clean and comfortable, with tea, coffee, toiletries and towels provided. Our block had a lounge with sofas and a TV downstairs, but we didn't use it much as we were far too busy with all the activities. Meals are served canteen style, with a good amount of choice, plenty of salad and fruit with every meal, and all dietary requirements catered for. There is an indoor heated pool that families can book to use for an hour in the evenings, and also a bar with plenty of games to keep the kids happy while the grown-ups enjoy a relaxing drink once the activities are complete. The staff were all really friendly and because they are used to welcoming school groups, they were all brilliant with the children. Manager Fi made sure we had everything we needed and answered all our questions, including lots about the history of Condover Hall. The manor house was built in 1598 for Thomas Owen, a judge and politician in the reign of Elizabeth I. He died before it was completed and it passed to his son Roger, whose initials can be seen on the grand fireplace in what is now the reception area. In the nearby churchyard are tombstones and commemorative sculptures for some of Thomas and Roger's descendants, telling the stories of their lives and deaths. During the mid-20th century, the property was bought by the Royal National Institute of Blind People for use as a residential school and has also been used as a school for autistic children. JCA bought the property in 2010 and, after a huge refurbishment, it has been welcoming groups on activity holidays since 2011. And our family verdict? When asked what her favourite activity was, Hazel, five, said: 'I enjoyed swimming the most. And the zip wire. And Grid of Stones because everyone was a team. And the food, especially the lasagne. I learned that the safety rope can hold an elephant, so it can definitely hold me.' Sam, 10, said: 'My favourite activity was the aerial trek. I went round four times. The climbing was good too. And the food was yummy.' Libby, 12, added: 'My favourite activity was the aerial trek as me and Daddy were having a competition over who could go round fastest. The staff were all really nice and made sure everyone was included and having fun.' And Rob, 43, was at least as enthusiastic as the kids – particularly about the axe throwing – and is already angling to go back. My favourite thing was spending so much time with the family and seeing the kids challenge themselves and come away beaming, eyes sparkling as they achieved more than they thought they could. I would thoroughly recommend JCA Condover Hall to any family that likes their holidays adventurous and packed with fun.
Daily Mirror
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Jacqueline Jossa on 'strange connection' during devastating EastEnders storyline
Jacqueline Jossa has opened up about Lauren Branning's upcoming storyline in BBC's EastEnders - which sees her find out that her newborn son Jimmy is severely sight impaired Jacqueline Jossa has revealed all about the tough times to come for her character Lauren Branning and her partner Peter Beale, and her "strange" connection with Linda Carter. The BBC soap recently revealed they were working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on an upcoming storyline where Lauren and Peter's find out their newborn son Jimmy is severely sight impaired. EastEnders spoilers reveal that in coming episodes, an "overwhelmed" Lauren grows convinced something isn't right with her baby son Jimmy. Elsewhere, her family also grow concerned when her son Louie makes a comment about seeing her taking some pills, it sparks concern that she's relapsed after her painkiller addiction. Lauren then takes Jimmy to the hospital after noticing something wrong with his eyes and when a consultant checks the newborn over, she tells a shocked Lauren and Peter that their son is severely sight impaired. Speaking on how her character feels after the diagnosis, Jacqueline said: "I think it's a real mix of emotions. The unknown is a scary place to be, and there is an element of knowing, that softens Lauren's anxiety. She finally feels like she wasn't going crazy, because everyone made her feel that way. "The reassurance of 'you were right' helps her process. Lauren knows that there is a new journey they are about to embark on and pretty quickly Lauren jumps in headfirst into the new journey and sort of takes it in her stride." Although Jac said it "wasn't going to be an easy journey" for Lauren, she said that her motherly love overcomes the guilt she feels. "She is determined to be there for Jimmy every step of the way." Elsewhere, at the start of next week, Lauren receives an "important" pep talk from Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) who reassures Lauren after having a similar journey with addiction - as Jacqueline called the connection "strange in a sense." Speaking on the budding relationship, she said: "They have both shown each other the ugly side of themselves, and on the Square, Linda is a little bit of a mother figure for Lauren in the sense that she can look up to her, and confide in her. It's almost strange in a sense, but it's a really beautiful relationship and I'm glad that it's her that comes to Lauren's rescue. "It's the first time all week that she feels heard, and that she feels seen. It's the first time Lauren is being agreed with."
Daily Mirror
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
EastEnders spoilers - Fears for Stacey and baby Jimmy's life-changing diagnosis
EastEnders spoilers for next week confirm Stacey Slater's loved ones are deeply concerned after worrying scenes on the BBC soap, while there's also an emotional storyline for baby Jimmy There's some huge moments with emotional scenes on EastEnders next week according to the new spoilers. Viewers will see concern grow for Stacey Slater, amid the news that actress Lacey Turner is taking a break from the BBC soap later this year. There's also concern for Lauren Branning as she grows convinced something isn't right with her baby son Jimmy. But when she rushes him to the hospital, her and her family are rocked by a diagnosis. Also next week there's news from former character Whitney Dean as Zack Hudson takes action after threats from Nicola Mitchell. It's a big week in Walford, with some highly emotional twists and turns. One of the big storylines of the week is baby Jimmy's diagnosis, with the soap confirming he will be diagnosed as severely sight impaired. When Lauren grows concerned for her newborn baby son, her panicked behaviour leaves partner Peter Beale and their family worried she might be struggling. When her son Louie makes a comment about seeing her taking some pills, it sparks concern that she's relapsed after her painkiller addiction. Prior to this, Lauren is struggling with her baby boy and is convinced something isn't right with Jimmy. She's urged to investigate, but her health visitor is soon telling Peter that Lauren may be experiencing symptoms of post-natal depression. As tensions rise, there's a worrying moment when Lauren notices something concerning when looking at Jimmy's eyes. Struggling to get an appointment with the doctor she heads to the hospital and demands to be seen. Lauren's midwife calls Peter who joins them at the hospital, and soon Lauren's fears are taken seriously. When a consultant checks the newborn over, she tells a shocked Lauren and Peter that their son is severely sight impaired. The soap is working with advice from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) on the storyline, with the scenes set to show how the diagnosis will impact Jimmy and his family as a whole. Elsewhere there's concern for grieving Stacey, as she refuses to leave her bedroom. Stacey has been in a bad way ever since her ex Martin Fowler died in the Queen Vic explosion back in February, just after he asked her to remarry him. Her daughter Lily Slater tries to cover up what's going on despite things taking their toll, but soon Stacey's loved ones find out. As Kat Slater heads to the house she is left worried by what she uncovers. She tries to take control of the situation and calls a family meeting, with Kat, Alfie, Suki and Eve planning to help with childcare, as they question whether Stacey needs professional help. As Stacey continues to hide away in her bedroom, Lily breaks down. Soon, Stacey, who is taking a break from the show, takes her first trip out of the house in weeks, but she worries Kat with her plans for a family meal. When Stacey's phone is misplaced and she realises it's in the laundry bag which is now on its way to the laundrette, she panics as she explains it contains voicemails, photos and texts from Martin and they'll be lost forever if the phone is damaged. She rushes off to find it before it's too late, and in her absence her son Arthur shocks Alfie with a secret. Meanwhile as Stacey reaches the laundrette her behaviour concerns Kat and Lily who fear she's experiencing a bipolar episode. Soon, an incident between Stacey and Lily leaves their relationship at breaking point. Also next week, it seems Nicola Mitchell will go to any lengths necessary to stop Zack from telling Barney that he's his biological father. Nicola will target Whitney it seems, as Whitney tells ex Zack that she's found a safe place for her and the girls to live, somewhere Nicola won't find them. Zack is encouraged to go and visit them, but he soon sparks concern when he plots to take Barney with him. Finally, Nigel Bates is urged to reconnect with his estranged daughter Clare to build bridges by Yolande Trueman. But she soon gets on the wrong side of him. Also Harvey Monroe is sacked by Kat after he moves on with Kathy Beale.
BBC News
17-04-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Sight loss: 'I was told I shouldn't be a mum because I'm blind'
Jen Troth has always wanted to be a mum, but a medical professional telling her she should not have children because of her sight loss has made the prospect "terrifying".The 29-year-old social media influencer, who lives in Cardiff, has the hereditary condition retinitis pigmentosa and only has about 10% of her sight said there needed to be better awareness that disabled people "exist in public life".Meanwhile, other women with sight loss have said their children had become "confident and caring" people as a result of their Welsh government said it provided funding "to help people with sight loss live confidently and safely". Ms Troth said she experienced "generational trauma" due to her father and grandmother having the same dad Peter, 74, "was basically told he was unemployable" as a mechanic when he began to lose his sight, forcing him to move to Dubai to start his own business."Because of this, I was raised not to talk about my blindness and I didn't tell anyone until I was 24," she said. "I was afraid to tell employers, to tell friends."She said safety considerations faced by many women were heightened by sight loss, particularly regarding Troth added: "You just have to trust that people in your life are going to be good people when, in a lot of cases, they're probably not."I had a previous partner lock me in a room once, to try and 'scare the blindness out of me' and prove I wasn't blind." She said these issues extended to medical professionals and she was "consistently" told by an eye care consultant that she "should not have children"."I have always wanted to be a mum. I'm very family orientated," she said, adding she was now "less afraid of going totally blind than being a mother".She said she worried about coping as a mother, particularly as her partner, who was an engineer, often worked away."It's honestly terrifying," Ms Troth said. "I've not got any peripheral vision - how am I going to see a child running around? How am I going to be allowed to look after a baby by myself? How do I access support?"You're also constantly thinking 'if I don't have a child soon, will I ever get to see what my child would look like?'" There are about 2.2m people living with sight loss across the UK and 60% are the 1960s, these women were were often considered unfit to parent and some went through sterilisation. But the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) said many disabled women continued to fight for respect and support 41% of blind and partially-sighted women feel there were misconceptions about mothers with sight loss, and 26% believed these were held by health professionals, its research Troth uses social media to raise awareness, visiting hospitality venues and showing what they were like for someone with access needs. Rhian Morris, from Bridgend, has nystagmus, myopia, and glaucoma and has lived with visual impairments since she was born. Two of her sons, aged 13 and three, have sight loss, while her one-year-old has Down's Syndrome."Stuff like changing nappies, I probably take a bit longer with... buttons and poppers on baby grows, I've lost hope with - I buy ones with zippers now," Ms Morris said taking her son to school could be challenging "because of people parking on pavements", but she had a symbol on her pram telling people she had sight loss. The 39-year-old said her phone was her "lifeline" as it allowed her to take photos of things and then zoom in, adding: "I have taken the boys away on my own and done days out on my own because I want the boys to know they can do it. "If you can't do something, you will find a way around it or you will ask for help."She believed sometimes people, often well-intentioned, underestimate her abilities, but women with sight loss "shouldn't be afraid" to become mums."Anyone has to adapt to having children, it's no different," she added. Tafsila Khan, a mum of three from Cardiff who also has retinitis pigmentosa, said her sight deterioration was gradual until her early 30s, after she had her children - none of whom inherited the 41-year-old added that, from a young age, her children could look out for the correct bus, order at a cafe, or ask a retail worker for said: "Taking them to the park and things, I thought would be a challenge, but they've grown up with a mum with sight loss so, for them, that's just the norm. "It has made them so much more confident... they've had to do things other children didn't, but I feel it's had a positive effect." Ansley Workman, director of RNIB Cymru, said negative opinions towards people with sight loss and "assumptions about their ability to parent" could have a "huge impact on their confidence and access to resources"."Becoming a parent can bring new and unexpected challenges, regardless of who you are. This doesn't stop parenting from being a hugely rewarding and exciting experience," she said."RNIB Cymru is calling for everyone to support mothers with sight loss by making information accessible and dispelling harmful myths." The Welsh government said the Wales Low Vision Service, provided by optometry practices, was the only service of its kind in the UK and provided more than 8,000 appointments for people with sight loss, of which almost 5,500 were women, in the 2023-24 year."We fund a number of organisations to help people with sight loss live confidently and safely, and work with the Wales Vision Forum to improve access to services," it added.
BBC News
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
London Fashion Week: Tactile sessions aid visually impaired fans
London Fashion Week - the buzz, the cameras, the bright lights, the glitz and glamour - is a visceral feast for the could there be a way for people who are visually impaired to properly experience the spectacle?This year, non-profit organisation Hair & Care created an "immersive tactile experience", allowing guests to touch runway pieces and hear detailed audio including Chet Lo, Roksanda and SS Daley took part in the initiative. Jessikah Inaba, the UK's first blind black barrister, said she usually used the descriptions of clothes to create an image of the piece in her mind. But this opportunity led to something she called "a reverse experience". "I get to feel the texture, hear the description, and imagine how the written description would capture what I'm sensing."Chet Lo has been amazing at describing everything — the colour, the pattern, the material. "It plays such a huge role in helping me really understand and appreciate the garments." Another of the guests, student Aleks Tamasauskas, said that although fashion is "a very visual thing" the audio descriptions and swatches "definitely help to paint a better understanding". "It helps you put one and one together - having a visual impairment means that sometimes you cannot see if something is a dress or a suit."We were seated right in front of the models so we could see the details and the outfits. "The audio description provided to us was quite well thought out. It gave some explanation of what the models were wearing and the materials used." Lucy Edwards, an influencer and model who lost her sight when she was younger, said she knew nothing about fashion or styling. "The world felt shut out to me. "There was no reference point, no way for me to participate. It felt like my sense of self was ripped away. "For years, I was missing out, but now, with this tactile experience I'm finally able to feel and connect with the pieces in a way I've never been able to before." 'Just learn, just do it' The project is not just about feeling the pieces, but getting a deeper understanding of the inspiration for the clothes. The designers ensured each garment was fully described through audio for the blind and low vision guests, creating a more immersive experience. Ms Edwards said: "Hearing Chet's cheery voice on the audio description but also knowing about him and why he wants to create the things he does makes it so much more meaningful and I think that is the gift of blindness. "It brings the catwalk to life. This is the future. "Audio description is simple, it's just an inclusive way to be, it's 2025. "Just learn, just do it, don't be afraid, disability is all around. Tactile is king."Mr Lo said he "always believed that fashion was not just for a specific kind of person. "I like to design for all genders and races and differently abled people." Jane Manley from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) said she had "a much better experience than sighted people" who didn't get to feel the intricacies of Chet Lo's added: "It's about helping us decide if the style, colour, and shape fit our identity," she added."If you're a clothing brand, make sure you have alt text on your images so we understand what we're looking at."
