The right to learn Braille

2007-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

RE: Campaign for the right to learn Braille

I have got 2 children registered blind with a degenerative condition.

My children are denied the right to learn Braille because they still have sight left.
· We have been told that as long as they can read large prints they will not need to learn Braille. I am happy with them reading and writing prints, but feel the need for them to also start learning Braille . As I am sure you are aware that the studies in America show that early Braille education is Vital.
Most blind people I have spoken to wished they could have had access to Braille from an early age.
Print is only a limited option, when their eyes are tired or the light condition not good, they are then left to struggle.

· I believe, blind people should be offered the chance to learn Braille as it is an essential skill to their independence.

· In America, there is no such a problem as they are aware of the need for children to be introduced to Braille as early as possible

· I was appalled when I called my local society for the blind to ask for help, for my children to learn Braille, to be told that they no longer encourage people to learn Braille, but instead advice them to use new electronic reading devices, and voice recorders, or voice activated computer software, and audio books and newspapers.

So I asked if I could get the details of any Braille teachers in my area, to find out that there is only 1 , living more than 30 miles away from us.
I have spoken to several blind people who told me that Braille is essential to their life, it enables them to read books to their children, label their possessions, work, write lists, play cards or other games…

· The RNIB are fighting their own battle to get more books in Braille which is a very good idea, but if people can not read Braille what is the point in having more Braille books.

· I have been talking to a lot of parents and blind people who believe they are being denied the right to learn Braille because of the shortage of Braille teacher, as well as lack of funding from local authorities.

· I think that you are aware of the importance of Braille and would like your help to allow more blind people to learn Braille.

You can contact me directly emmanuele.higgins@tiscali.co.uk or join our web group for parents of VI and blind children or blind adults: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PVIC/

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The right to learn braille

The right to learn Braille