Join Natural England as they host an insightful webinar focused on enhancing the accessibility of green and blue spaces (including forests, allotments, lakes, and the sea) for individuals with visual impairments. Our speakers and panellists will delve into the findings of a recent report, share innovative pilot projects, and discuss strategies for overcoming barriers to nature experiences for people who have visual impairments and disabilities more broadly.

Agenda

10:30-10:35 am | Introduction and housekeeping

10:35-10:55 am | Findings from report ‘Creating More Accessible Green & Blue Spaces: Understanding the experiences of people with visual impairments that visit green and blue spaces’

• Dr Louise Montgomery, Natural England
• Dr Anant Jani, University of Oxford
• Anita Lightstone, MyVision Oxfordshire

10:55-11:15 am  | MyVision Oxfordshire Green Walks Pilot Project: Implementing the Recommendations

• Anita Lightstone, MyVision Oxfordshire
• Devante Claridge, MyVision Oxfordshire
• Claire Merritt, MyVision Oxfordshire

11:15-11:45 am | RNIB and RSPB Northern Ireland Pilot Project: Exploring the barriers to nature experiences on RSPB reserves for people with sight loss and improve access for all

• Fiona Joyce, RNIB Northern Ireland
• Dawn Hopper, RNIB
• Anne Cahill, RSPB Northern Ireland
• John Dowswell, RSPB UK

11:45 am -12:00 pm | Discussion Panel & Attendee Questions

• Kerry Frith, Fight for Sight & Vision Foundation
• Dr Anant Jani, University of Oxford
• Anita Lightstone, MyVision Oxfordshire
• Devante Claridge, MyVision Oxfordshire
• Claire Merritt, MyVision Oxfordshire
• Fiona Joyce, RNIB Northern Ireland
• Dawn Hopper, RNIB
• Anne Cahill, RSPB Northern Ireland
• John Dowswell, RSPB UK

*the webinar will be recorded*