By Scarlett Humphrey
Everyone is familiar with the radio – it’s often on in the car, used as a background noise, or turned on to listen to specific shows. With so much choice now available to listen to and watch on so many streaming platforms though, the world of radio can easily be thought of as slipping away. But for many it still stands strong, bringing with it a sense of connection and community. I class myself in this bracket, an avid listener and radio enthusiast… and so do many other blind and partially sighted people. But what does this medium bring to this specific group to have such a connection?
For me, one major factor is that radio puts listeners at an equal level of accessing its content. From a visual perspective, I am not disadvantaged by not seeing, as each person is solely reliant on listening to the material being broadcast. Dramas, documentaries, and even news bulletins have to be adapted to be audio-led, with more emphasis on the words and background sounds, rather than using visual images to portray and explain information.
Listeners are able to imagine their own scenes and characters using just the sound and language to guide them. With this, having a visual impairment doesn’t limit the listener in accessing material and enjoying content, which may not be the case when viewing similar programmes on television, thus also allowing them to fully engage with every show. One prime example of this is sports commentary.
The skill of a radio commentator describing what they see and relaying this to the audience is one thing that gives radio its unique quality. The commentator must convey what is happening, whilst remembering that the listeners have to build a mental image of what they are hearing. Some sports, such as cricket, lend themselves to building this mental picture, with the names of the fielding positions – for instance “Square Leg”, “Mid On”, and “Cover”. For followers of this game who are familiar with these positions, a mental picture of where the ball has gone and what the field looks like can be drawn surprisingly accurately. The difficulty for the commentator is explaining the incredible catches and batting strokes, which can easily be shown on a television replay, but must be described for radio listeners. Their skill in narrating unscripted drama through vivid descriptions and variety of language can make a reel of radio highlights in themselves. Alternatively, fast-paced sports such as football are challenging by the speed of the game, having to portray the action across to their audience accurately and at speed. This task of using language to describe an event, whether that be sporting or not, is what captivates and includes an audience, particularly if they have a visual impairment.
Since 1961, In Touch has brought the voices of the visually impaired community to national radio, where VI-related topics are discussed, news can be shared, and people can express their views on what matters to them. The first edition of In Touch was broadcast on 8th October 1961, becoming a weekly show in 1971.
Having many VI people involved in the world of radio reflects the popularity of this medium in the VI community through the years. Having these opportunities to share their experiences has led to some becoming familiar names not only related to disability, but on other radio and television programmes too, including the current in Touch presenter Peter White and the current Chief North America correspondent for the BBC Gary O’Donoghue. This contribution from visually impaired broadcasters and correspondents has inspired many VI people to pursue careers in journalism, television and radio.
Since Guglielmo Marconi’s first transmission in 1895, the radio has offered an alternative form of communication and entertainment. From music to sport, drama to news, there is always something for everybody on the airwaves. Yet, this medium is much loved and appreciated by the VI community, allowing them to access content fully and as freely as sighted peers around them. It can enhance experiences, like those of sporting events or performances, or offer a way to unwind and relax to music and stories. It provides in-depth insights into all matters from history to science, all through the use of words and sound. This, I feel, is why radio is so special and appreciated by so many, because it has a place for all, and a different way to access the world around us.
The VICTA Changemakers were fortunate to take part in producing their own radio show for Surrey Hills Community Radio. Through both in-person and virtual interviews and content production, the Changemakers takeover is soon to hit the airwaves. It was a great experience for all, offering the chance to share experiences and creative compositions. We can’t wait for everyone to hear it. Thank you to Surrey Hills Community Radio for hosting and we look forward to sharing our show with you.
Do you have a love of radio or a favourite show? Let us know in the comments below!
Follow Scarlett & sister Eliza on Instagram: @humphrey_sisters
