Royal London Society for the Blind

The Royal London Society for the Blind (RLSB) was established in 1838 by Thomas Mark Lucas to 'teach the blind to read'. The RLSB is one of the oldest charities set up to meet the needs of blind and partially sighted children and adults.

In 1997, the RLSB transferred its headquarters from London to its educational campus at Dorton House in Seal, Sevenoaks, which it opened in 1956. From here, the RLSB provides a service for the families of blind and partially sighted children in addition to its specialist Nursery, School and College facilities. The engineering factory and Employment Services remain based in North London.

The Charity's patron is the Duchess of Gloucester, and Cheryl Baker, Anita Dobson and Jayne Torvill have recently become Vice Presidents of the Society.

Sevice Areas

"Dorton House School"

Pupils at Dorton House School follow the full National Curriculum as well as specialist subjects such as Braille, Technology and Mobility. Children receive indivually tailored education plans, to ensure they reach their potential.

Within the School, a Nursery is also provided for infants who are blind and partially sighted and may have additional disabilities. It offers a stimulating environment which encourages the children to explore their surroundings.

"Dorton College of Further Education"

Blind and partially sighted studetns are able to choose from an extended range of courses, as it has links with three local mainstream colleges. This partnership enables the students to study both at Dorton College and at their chosen college with support and specialist equipment wherever it is needed.

"Employment Services"

The employment scheme was set up to decrease the high level of unemployment amongst blind and partially sighted people. (Currently 75% of blind and partially sighted adults are unemployed.) Practical support with job-seeking, specialist IT equipment loan to employers and sustained awareness programmes are combined to get more blind and partially sighted people into today's workplace.

"Industrial Services"

The RLSB runs an engineering factory in North London where blind and partially sighted people produce goods for a number of corporate customers. They also provide training courses in engineering, enabling employees to optimise their future employment prospects.

Current Controversies

In May 2008, the RLSB issued letters threatening their employees with redundancy. This has been attacked by Community,a British trade union as 'a disgraceful, callous act performed without consultation and no regard for the needs of their disabled workforce' [Community website accessed 28th May] .

References