Opportunity Arises to Support Small Charity Helping UK’s Visually Impaired

An exciting new opportunity has arisen for passionate technology enthusiasts to work alongside a leading national charity to support the UK’s visually impaired. British Wireless for the Blind Fund (BWBF) is looking for volunteers to support its mission to reduce isolation for those living with sight loss.

British Wireless for the Blind Fund (BWBF) provides specially designed audio devices to blind and partially sighted people across the country. The devices empower blind people to listen to radio, podcasts, talking books, talking newspapers, and much more, all at the touch of a button, helping them to easily access essential information, and reducing day-to-day loneliness.

The charity is seeking flexible Technology Support Volunteers to spend four hours per week – or more – helping with a range of technology services that BWBF provides. Successful volunteers will work from home and will be responsible for conducting internet-based research to identify new content, updating internet streams to help BWBF further develop its service, and working closely with smart devices such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Sophie Jones, BWBF Regional Development Manager, says “We’re very excited to be able to offer this fantastic position, and we’re looking forward to chatting with interested volunteers who share our vision for a more social, more inclusive future. This role comes with many wonderful benefits, including a chance to gain in depth insights into how online radio and online audio is provided, learn more about audio streaming, and, of course, an opportunity to significantly enrich the lives of visually impaired communities across the UK.”

BWBF is passionate about improving the wellbeing and quality of life of blind and partially sighted people across the country, and over the past two years has delivered thousands of devices under the BWBFConnect service to better support vulnerable people during the pandemic. Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, BWBF has played a major role in ensuring strong communications with the visually impaired, delivering news and information, entertainment, and a friendly voice at a time when many people were separated from their family.

Experience in a previous role is not necessary. Instead, BWBF is searching for volunteers with good computer skills and basic technical knowledge who are passionate about making a difference and supporting isolated people with visual impairments. All necessary training and guidance will be provided.

Want to find out more about supporting BWBF? Register your interest for the Technology Support Volunteer position by contacting Sophie Jones on 07540 724 062, or by emailing sophie@blind.org.uk. Candidates can also call BWBF’s head office on 01622 754 757 to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

To find out more about British Wireless for the Blind Fund, visit www.blind.org.uk