In Touch Folgen

The effects of Age-related Macular Degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma don't change because of lockdown. And people with some conditions are worried that the cancellation of existing appointments to prevent the spread of Coronavirus could mean an irreversible loss of vision. President of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists Dr Michael Burdon is on hand to explain what you should expect when it comes to cancellations, but also what happens if a consultant decides you should definitely be seen. Gary Ankin is one of many guide dog users who has found himself having to cope without a dog. He was about to take ownership of a new one, and he tells us how people like him are managing now that training has been paused. And one more in our series of blind characters from history who raise the spirits - John Fielding - the astonishing magistrate who became known as the Blind Beak of Bow Street. Think of an 18th Century Sherlock Holmes crossed with a reform activist and you're nearly there. Presented by Peter White Produced by Kev Core

Peter White hears from sight loss charities struggling during the Coronavirus crisis. Will a financial aid package announced by the Chancellor work for them? We hear tips on using video conferencing when you're visually impaired. And remembering the blind marchers who, a century ago, headed for London demanding fair treatment. PRODUCER: Mike Young.

Keeping a safe two-metre distance during the Covid-19 lockdown presents a serious difficulty for people who are used to being guided when they shop. So a new petition by leading blind organisations is calling on the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs to include the blind and visually impaired in its list of 1.5m vulnerable people who receive priority online shopping slots. We talk to reporter Mani Djazmi about his own quest for groceries and whether an exception should be made. And The RNIB has announced the immediate suspension of its physical Braille library lending services. Dave Williams tells us what other reading options are being made available. And another entry in our series of notable blind historical figures - the 16th Century recorder player and composer, Jacob Van Eyck, featuring the insights and music of Piers Adams. Presented by Peter White Produced by Kevin Core