Easy listening
There are many ways that you can listen to the radio, including through Alexa, Google Home or a smart phone. Here, we will discuss Kent-based charity British Wireless for the Blind, who provide equipment for purchase or loan.
Founded in 1928 by blinded Boer War veteran, Sir Ernest Beachcroft Beckwith Towse, the organisation attempted to address the reality that, despite radio broadcasts starting to grow in number, few visually impaired people could afford a radio set. He set out to fix that, and started raising money to help pay for radios for those who needed them.
Now, they loan out several models of radio, with various different sets of specially adapted features, to those who are unable to afford one. Some have USB to load media from, some have Bluetooth to be easily connected to a phone, and both portable and home-based models are available; whatever your specific needs, they’ve got something that can make your life easier.
The factory that makes the Concerto 3 radio will soon be closing and the British Wireless for the Blind is currently searching for an alternative production solution.
For more information email info@blind.org.uk or call them on 01622 754757 or visit https://blind.org.uk/
Alison, from our Advisory Council, bought her radio from British Wireless for the Blind:
“Their radios are good quality and their operating manual comes in large print but also as a CD, which makes learning to use it really easy. I have the Concerto 3 boombox, which has a DAB and FM radio and the ability to play CDs, cassette tapes and USB sticks. Another great feature is the bookmark facility, which remembers your place when listening to audio books.
“The equipment is really easy to use, the knobs being well colour-contrasted and different shapes, and having raised tactile marks to aid identification. The Boombox also has excellent colour contrast, which is black with yellow knobs.
“I would certainly recommend the Concerto 3 to others, especially if they find smart technologies difficult to use. I am familiar with technology and I currently use my Google Home to listen to the radio; but I know that others may find it difficult to use or may not have access to Wifi and this is a great alternative.
“I have hundreds of CD albums, which I love listening to via my Concerto 3, whilst working in the kitchen. The cost is just over £294, but they can loan you the equipment if you meet certain criteria.”
The factory that makes the Concerto 3 radio will soon be closing and the British Wireless for the Blind is currently searching for an alternative production solution.
For more information email info@blind.org.uk or call them on 01622 754757 or visit https://blind.org.uk/