In this episode of the Retina UK podcast, we're handing the mic to the team! Recorded during a recent staff meeting, this episode gives you the chance to meet the people behind the scenes at Retina UK. You'll hear from (almost) everyone on the team as they share a bit about who they are, what they do, and why they’re passionate about supporting those affected by inherited sight loss. Hosted by Lauren, our Digital and Events Senior Coordinator, this episode offers a unique insight into the work t...
Jun 27, 2025•9 min
This is the audio edition of the Retina UK Newsletter, Look Forward - Summer 2025 (Issue 186). You can download a copy in PDF and Word format on the Retina UK website: RetinaUK.org.uk/resources . Contents in this edition are as follows: Help us to mark our 50th anniversary Win up to £1,000 cash in our annual raffle Register now for our flagship event of the year Looking for clarity with genetic testing Our 2024 in numbers How genetic testing can support research Annual General Meeting ...
Jun 05, 2025•55 min
Find out more about the difference we made in 2024. This report is also available in PDF and plain text (Word) formats on the Retina UK website: RetinaUK.org.uk/resource/impact-report-2024/
Jun 04, 2025•35 min
In this episode, we're joined by two of our wonderful volunteers, Kim and Annemarie. They chat with our Communications Manager, Jane, about their experiences with sight loss, what inspired them to volunteer with Retina UK, whilst also discussing what volunteering means to them . They also talk about all the exciting things they get up to in their peer support group meetings. We hope you enjoy the conversation!
May 30, 2025•17 min
We know a lot of people are concerned about the proposed changes to the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) that were announced at the end of March. Much of the proposal forms part of a wider consultation with the Department for Work and Pensions.Hear from our Special Project Lead, Matthew Carr, in this webinar about Influencing with Retina UK to learn more about the proposals, Retina UK’s position and how you can make sure your voice is heard by your MP and in the consultation. Matt also talks ...
May 23, 2025•35 min
The latest e-Newsletter from Retina UK. Please consider donating to Retina UK through a monhtly or quartely direct debit if you can. Regular donations provide a reliable source of income to help us to plan effectively for the future. Visit https://retinauk.org.uk/get-involved/donate/ to sign up, or, if you prefer, call us on 01280 821442
May 16, 2025•8 min
In this podcast, our Research Development Manager, Kate Arkell, talks to health economics researcher Rebecca Rosi from Bangor University, who is aiming to investigate which support services are available and which are most beneficial to people living with RP.
May 16, 2025•11 min
The London Marathon 2025 is fast approaching and our #TeamRetinaUK runners are well underway with their training and fundraising! In this inspiring session, our marathon runners share their personal stories, motivations, and experiences as they take on this iconic challenge to raise awareness and vital funds for retinal conditions. Hear firsthand how they are preparing for the marathon, the unique connection they have to Retina UK, and why they’re going the extra mile to help us support research...
Apr 16, 2025•42 min
The latest e-Newsletter from Retina UK. Please consider donating to Retina UK through a monhtly or quartely direct debit if you can. Regular donations provide a reliable source of income to help us to plan effectively for the future. Visit https://retinauk.org.uk/get-involved/donate/ to sign up, or, if you prefer, call us on 01280 821442
Apr 11, 2025•9 min
Join us for our next webinar which is an exploration of a community members experiences of genetic testing with input from a genetic counsellor. If you would like more information on genetic testing, you can head to our website where you will find guidance on how genetic testing may help you and your family discover more about your inherited sight loss condition and how to unlock choices. The page can be found here: https://retinauk.org.uk/genetics/ If you would also like to watch Rob's video, t...
Mar 21, 2025•51 min
Join Lauren as she chats with Paula McGrath, Deputy CEO of Retina UK, about the 2025 Sight Loss Survey - why it matters, how your voice can drive real change, and how you can take part. Every three years, we carry out this survey to ensure our work continues to meet the needs of our community. Your voice matters, and we need your input to shape the future of our services, campaigns, and advocacy efforts for those living with inherited sight loss. The survey should take approximately 40 minutes. ...
Mar 17, 2025•15 min
This is the audio edition of the Retina UK Newsletter, Look Forward - Spring 2025 (Issue 185). You can download a copy in PDF and Word format on the Retina UK website: RetinaUK.org.uk/resources . Contents in this edition are as follows: Tell us about you – Tina Garvey You can influence positive change A golden opportunity for your workplace Marking 50 years of Retina UK Experimental therapy by Retina UK funded researchers leads to ‘life changing improvements’ A passion for genetic engine...
Mar 13, 2025•1 hr 7 min
The latest e-Newsletter from Retina UK. Please consider donating to Retina UK through a monhtly or quartely direct debit if you can. Regular donations provide a reliable source of income to help us to plan effectively for the future. Visit https://retinauk.org.uk/get-involved/donate/ to sign up, or, if you prefer, call us on 01280 821442
Feb 14, 2025•8 min
At Retina UK, we believe that together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by retinal conditions. That’s why we’re inviting you listen to our webinar, "Together We Can: Ways You Can Get Involved!" – your guide to exciting fundraising opportunities in 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned fundraiser or new to supporting us, this webinar is packed with ideas and inspiration to help you get involved. From taking on iconic challenges like marathons and walks to hosting your own e...
Feb 14, 2025•40 min
In this podcast we talk to Dr Jasleen Jolly, Associate Professor at Jolly Vision Science and Honorary fellow at Melbourne University. We are also joined by Yvette Chivers, Helpline Coordinator at Retina UK, who is living with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) and experiences CBS. Charles Bonnet Syndrome is phenomenon where some people with sight loss experience visual hallucinations. Tune in to find out more about CBS, Yvette's experience and the work that Dr Jasleen Jolly is doing.
Feb 14, 2025•39 min
We are joined today by Tina Garvey, Chief Executive Officer at Retina UK. In this episode we reflect on the year 2024, taking a closer look at some of the most significant milestones and achievements for Retina UK, as well as the challenges we faced. We also explore the lasting impact Retina UK has had on the community, and look ahead to the exciting projects in store for 2025.
Jan 31, 2025•27 min
We’re excited to announce that Mark Baxter, our Information and Support Coordinator, will be sharing his experience of his holiday to Las Vegas, where he attended the CES 2025! CES is the world’s leading tech event, showcasing the latest innovations that could transform the lives of people with vision impairments. Hosted by Matthew Carr, Mark will discuss the cutting-edge technologies he encounters at CES that have the potential to impact those with retinal conditions. From advancements in assis...
Jan 24, 2025•51 min
The latest e-Newsletter from Retina UK. Please consider donating to Retina UK through a monthly or quarterly direct debit if you can. Regular donations provide a reliable source of income to help us to plan effectively for the future. Visit www.RetinaUK.org.uk/regular-giving/ to sign up, or, if you prefer, call us on 01280 821334.
Jan 16, 2025•8 min
Joining us for an "Ask the Expert" session is Dr Roly Megaw who is currently supervising a Retina UK/Macular Society PHD studentship and has received other Retina UK Research funding in the past.Dr. Megaw, answers your burning questions on inherited retinal conditions, the latest research, and much more. Whether you're living with a retinal condition or supporting someone who is, this webinar is full of valuable insights you won’t want to miss.
Dec 18, 2024•57 min
Chris and Dianne’s #Strictly journey has been incredible to watch. We chat with Alan and Lucille who are both blind. They have both been dancing for a number of years. Find out more about why they enjoy it. How they manage to dance with low or no vision and what their thoughts about Chris and Dianne’s chances in the final this weekend.
Dec 13, 2024•30 min
The latest e-Newsletter from Retina UK. Please consider donating to Retina UK through a monthly or quarterly direct debit if you can. Regular donations provide a reliable source of income to help us to plan effectively for the future. Visit www.RetinaUK.org.uk/regular-giving/ to sign up, or, if you prefer, call us on 01280 821334.
Dec 11, 2024•7 min
This is the audio edition of the Retina UK Newsletter, Look Forward - Winter 2024 (Issue 184). You can download a copy in PDF and Word format on the Retina UK website: RetinaUK.org.uk/resources . Contents in this edition are as follows: A landmark anniversary on the horizon (Tina Garvey) Time for learning and connecting Join our Gene Team this Christmas A unique perspective Sharing stories and experiences Thank you Research round-up Information and support in a way that works for you Join ...
Nov 28, 2024•1 hr
Hear our innovative research grantees discuss their projects and the exciting progress they are making, and see how your gift can make a real impact this Big Give. Our panel includes Professor Majlinda Lako: Professor Majlinda Lako is the co-director of regenerative medicine stem cells and transplantation at Newcastle University. Professor Lako is a member of the Biosciences Institute and her work contributes to the Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cells and Transplantation research Theme. She is als...
Nov 22, 2024•54 min
Join us in this exciting episode of the Retina UK Podcast as we introduce our new chair, Kathy Evans. With a wealth of experience and a passion for supporting those affected by retinal conditions, tune in to learn more about her background, her commitment to advocacy, and the innovative initiatives on the horizon for Retina UK.
Oct 30, 2024•7 min
Join our Senior Fundraising Manager, James Clarke, as he chats to three wonderful volunteers about what they got up to on Thursday 10 October, our very first Retina UK Day. From cake sales, to quiz nights to even radio shows, Retina UK day was an incredible day. Thank you to all that took part.
Oct 15, 2024•15 min
The latest e-Newsletter from Retina UK. If you would prefer to receive this content by email, please subscribe via our website: https://retinauk.org.uk/get-involved/mailing-list/. Please consider donating to Retina UK through a monthly or quarterly direct debit if you can. Regular donations provide a reliable source of income to help us to plan effectively for the future. Visit Retinauk.org.uk/get-involved/donate/ to sign up, or if you prefer, call us on 01280 821334...
Oct 15, 2024•8 min
This Impact Report is available in accessible PDF and plain text on the Retina UK website: RetinaUK.org.uk/resources .
Oct 11, 2024•24 min
Join us for an inspiring webinar where four artists share their creative passions and journey with sight loss. In this session, you’ll hear from four artists: Tina , our gifted Christmas card designer, will share her journey of creating intricate and beautiful designs. Adrian Paternoster , a skilled artist, will offer insights into his craft, where he uses paints on canvases. Rob Sears , a content creator known as “Blind Focus with Rob Sears”, will discuss his process for creating content online...
Oct 11, 2024•59 min
Professor Graeme Black, Chloe Brotherton, Gabriel Velichkova, Dr Panagiotis Sergouniotis, Kate Arkell (Retina UK)
Oct 02, 2024•47 min
An overview of the latest promising research. Professor Graeme Black
Oct 02, 2024•44 min
