Life Beyond Visual Impairment

Dan

Life Beyond Visual Impairment shows professionals, people living with visual impairment and the general public that life still goes on even though you can’t see so well anymore. Find out more at https://www.visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com #WorkplaceAdjustments #VisualImpairment #BankingSector #Inclusivity #Accessibility #AssistiveTechnologies #AccessibleWorkspace #Design #TrainingPrograms #CorporateCulture #Empowerment #Diversity.

  1. 04/25/2024

    Empowering Independence: The Revolution of Smart Home Technology for the Visually Impaired

    Welcome back, listeners, to another insightful podcast where we explore the transformative world of smart home technology, particularly through the lens of accessibility. Hosts Dan Williams, director of Visualise Training and Consultancy and Graham Coath (podcast host and journalist) are joined by guest Aj from AAT Solutions. Together, we unpack how smart devices like lighting and heating systems are not just about convenience; they're a gateway to empowerment for individuals with visual impairments. Tune in as we share stories of personal challenges turned into victories with smart technology, and how these innovations are reshaping independence at home. As we continue our conversation, we touch on the crucial balance between design aesthetics and functionality in kitchen appliances. Why do sleek designs often take precedence over accessibility? We question this trend and advocate for inclusive product development that doesn't compromise on style or user choice. Listen in as we challenge manufacturers to consult more with people of diverse abilities and hear our call for products that truly cater to everyone. Our dialogue also sheds light on the subtle biases that may exist within the industry, and how we can all contribute to a more inclusive future. Wrapping up our discussion, we reflect on the leaps in accessibility seen in recent times, especially those spurred by the pandemic. With platforms like Zoom and Teams evolving to better serve users with visual impairments, we're reminded of the power of feedback and the responsibility of all stakeholders in advocating for inclusive designs. We also delve into the world of fitness technology, sharing how companies can be more vocal about accessibility features, thus informing and serving a wider audience. So grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired by the potential of smart technology to enhance everyday life for everyone. 00:00 - 03:45 Introduction 03:46 - 05:08 Improving Access to Smart Technology 11:55 - 13:02 Technology for Visual Impairments 14:04 - 15:00 Long-Lasting Battery for Smart Device 19:15 - 20:37 Accessibility in Kitchen Product Design 26:33 - 27:47 Website Accessibility Awareness 29:50 - 31:02 Planned Obsolescence in Mobile Phones 32:59 - 34:05 Perceptions of Blind Cooks 38:46 - 40:22 Workplace Accessibility and Disability Awareness 43:39 - 45:10 Awareness of Accessibility in Electronic Retail 47:30 - 48:05 Increased Accessibility

    54 min
  2. 03/27/2024

    Tackling Discrimination in Everyday Accessibility: Insights from Equality Law with guest Carrie Clews

    In this podcast episode from Visualized Training and Consultancy, the discussion centers around the ongoing issues of accessibility and discrimination experienced by individuals with disabilities, with a focus on the law surrounding these matters. The hosts, accompanied by guest Carrie Clews, an expert in equality and discrimination from Ringrose Law, delve into real-world scenarios related to disability discrimination, particularly in the context of accessing taxis and public transportation. Carrie shares her experience working to combat discrimination through legal means, emphasising the importance of educating both individuals and businesses on their rights and obligations. The conversation also explores common barriers faced by disabled individuals, the significance of making reasonable adjustments, and the impactful role of litigation in advocating for positive change and raising awareness about the vital need for inclusion and empathy in everyday interactions and services. 00:00 Welcome to the Podcast: Discussing Law with a Twist 00:38 The Struggle for Accessibility: Taxi Experiences and Legal Battles 01:04 Introducing Carrie: A Champion for Equality and Discrimination Law 01:45 The Shocking Reality of Discrimination in 2024 02:41 The Long Road to Equality: Progress and Pitfalls 03:57 Personal Stories of Discrimination: A Guide Dog Owner's Ordeal 06:08 Education vs. Ignorance: The Root of Discrimination 14:52 Making Reasonable Adjustments: The Equality Act Explained 19:06 Rethinking Accessibility: From Legal Compliance to Human Decency 21:38 The Future of Accessibility: Building for All 24:39 Understanding Individual Needs in the Workplace 25:44 The Impact of Technology on Workplace Communication 26:16 The Role of Exposure and Education in Addressing Discrimination 27:21 The Power of Media Representation in Normalising Diversity 28:02 Legal Perspectives on Equality and Accessibility Challenges 30:08 Common Accessibility Barriers and Legal Solutions 33:20 The Importance of Market Research and Stakeholder Engagement 36:04 Training and Awareness: Bridging the Gap Between Management and Staff 42:00 The Process and Impact of Legal Claims for Discrimination 46:21 Encouraging Action Against Discrimination 48:00 The Vision for a More Inclusive Future

    50 min
  3. 02/27/2024

    Coming Out: A Conversation about Sight Loss and Sexuality

    In this podcast episode, Dan Williams, George Plumridge along with host Graham Coath dive into an interesting conversation about 'coming out', both in terms of sexual orientation and sight loss. Dan and George share personal experiences of coming out in different aspects of their lives and discuss the challenges, commonalities, and differences they faced. The conversation also touches upon societal perceptions and potential misconceptions people might have about visual impairments and sexual orientation. The discussion further extends to the importance of acceptance and inclusion in the workplace and society in general. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:12 Coming Out: A Dual Perspective 01:26 Introducing the Guests: Dan and George 02:17 Dan's Journey: Sight Loss and Acceptance 09:10 George's Story: Career Change and Sight Loss 14:27 Coming Out: The Intersection of Sight Loss and Sexuality 20:21 The Impact of Society's Perception 21:04 The Role of Media in Shaping Perceptions 27:24 Balancing Prejudice and Preconceptions 27:42 Media's Role in Shaping Perceptions 28:29 The Power of Positive Representation 28:47 The Impact of Media Stereotypes 29:11 Normalising Differences in Society 31:21 The Influence of Role Models 31:50 The Struggle of Coming Out as Disabled 32:05 The Fear of Disclosure in the Workplace 32:44 Personal Experience: Coming Out as Visually Impaired 34:19 The Impact of Lack of Support in the Workplace 35:23 The Importance of Recognising Employee Needs 36:29 The Need for More Inclusive Workplaces 41:07 The Struggles of Being a Visually Impaired Teacher 46:00 The Importance of Honest Communication in the Workplace 53:18 The Challenges of Temporary Employment for the Visually Impaired 58:37 Closing Thoughts: Be Loud and Proud

    1 hr

About

Life Beyond Visual Impairment shows professionals, people living with visual impairment and the general public that life still goes on even though you can’t see so well anymore. Find out more at https://www.visualisetrainingandconsultancy.com #WorkplaceAdjustments #VisualImpairment #BankingSector #Inclusivity #Accessibility #AssistiveTechnologies #AccessibleWorkspace #Design #TrainingPrograms #CorporateCulture #Empowerment #Diversity.