State-of-the-art tech in Southport

BWBF has brought its state-of-the-art technology to a registered blind Southport resident.

British Wireless for the Blind Fund has donated a radio to a woman in Southport – making her one of the first in the area to receive a piece of state-of-the-art tech.

Dorothy Gerrard has become one of the first to own a Sonata internet audio player.

The small black and yellow box produced by us is changing the way people with sight loss access radio, news, books, magazines and even shopping catalogues.

Dororthy says it’s a massive boost for people with her condition – a hereditary eye disease and glaucoma.

She said: “I’m thrilled to bits. It’s a great piece of kit which will make a lot of difference to people living with sight loss.

“You can control it completely using the OK button and by listening to the prompts.

“I can now listen to my favourite radio programme, talking newspapers and music stations from anywhere in the world with ease.”

The Sonata means people without a computer, PC skills or any special installation knowhow, can access internet content from anywhere in the world in their own home through a broadband internet connection.

Dorothy added: “Before the Sonata, I couldn’t use my music centre to change from radio to CD and I had to stick with one or the other and miss out on my favourites.

“What a joy to receive my internet radio and how simple to use. Being a writer of sorts, I also love the talking books.”

BWBF Regional Development Manager, Steven Poole, said: “This is the first internet audio player specifically for users with sight loss and BWBF has always strived to be at the forefront of technological innovation.

“We’ve been testing the Sonata for use by visually impaired people for some time now and are delighted with the positive response.

“It really is a life-altering tool for those suffering with sight loss.”