RNIB Podcast Interview - Open Water Swimming Can Be Accessible for Blind and Partially Sighted People: Public engagement and inclusive aquatic research with visually impaired communities

In this episode of RNIB Connect Radio, Sadie Rockliffe discusses her research on blue space accessibility and inclusive swim practices for people with visual impairments. The conversation highlights the design and delivery of sensory-led, participatory swim sessions that challenge conventional notions of access and independence. Sadie reflects on her collaborative work with blind and partially sighted swimmers, the value of embodied engagement with water, and how inclusive research practices can transform understandings of access, space, and relational inclusion.

RNIB Connect says:

"A collaborative project between the University of Brighton and Sight Support Worthing is looking at ways of making outdoor swimming an accessible option for blind and partially sighted people.

RNIB Connect Radio’s Allan Russell spoke to Sadie Rockliffe, from Brighton University, to learn more about the research and their successful pilot event.

If you’d like more info on the research, or swimming opportunities, go to www.accessiblewaters.co.uk"