Did you know that there are very few places that teach Braille to adults?  This is because fewer people are learning Braille these days.  Most blind people can rely on technology such as audiobooks and software that will ‘speak’ what’s on a screen.  But what about deafblind people?  How can we make sure we can keep ‘reading’, even if our eyes can’t make out letters anymore?

Luckily, we found out that Adult Education Lewisham was offering Braille courses to hearing people.  We asked if they would consider running a class just for deafblind people as well.  They agreed, and thanks to their wonderful teacher Danielle (a life-long braille user herself) we had a 2 day trial.  Six BRIGHTies went to visit the centre, and we began learning the braille alphabet using special ‘Braille Lego’ made just for the purpose.  We had a fantastic time!  Fingers crossed that Adult Education Lewisham will offer us a full course so that we can all get reading again.

“Yesterday’s braille lesson was brilliant and I enjoyed every minute of the lesson. Typing braille with three fingers on each hand was an eye-opener, and being able to read tactile words with my finger was amazing! I can’t wait to participate in the full course in the autumn. Thank you so much for organising the interesting taster session”