RSBC showcases the power of accessibility at the Old Bailey

We were proud to attend as an exhibitor at the Accessibility in the City event earlier this week, hosted at the Old Bailey by the City of London Corporation.

Bringing together business leaders, accessibility experts and people with lived experience, the event highlighted how accessibility can unlock opportunities for individuals and organisations, and contribute to a more inclusive society.

Leading the conversation

As Convenor of the Disability in the City Network, RSBC's CEO Julie Davis joined a distinguished panel of speakers advocating for greater accessibility across workplaces, products and services.

With disabled people and their households contributing an estimated £446 billion annually to the UK's economy through the "Purple Pound", organisations that embrace accessibility are better placed to attract talent, reach customers and foster innovation.

Whether it's accessible websites, inclusive recruitment practices, flexible working arrangements or clearer communication, removing barriers enables more people to participate fully in work and society. 

Bringing sight loss awareness to the City

Alongside the panel discussions, RSBC was delighted to exhibit at the event and engage with attendees from across the City of London.

Visitors to our stand had the opportunity to learn more about the challenges faced by blind and partially sighted children and young people, the support RSBC provides to families across England and Wales, and the practical steps organisations can take to become more inclusive.

One of the highlights for our visitors was to experience sight loss through our Empatheyes VR headsets. These immersive simulations help people better understand the everyday barriers that many blind and partially sighted people encounter.

Accessibility matters

At RSBC, we know that barriers often begin early in life. Blind and partially sighted children and young people can face challenges accessing education, technology, transport, employment opportunities and social activities. These barriers can affect confidence, independence and future prospects if they are not addressed.

That is why accessibility must be built into every aspect of society, from the digital services we use every day to the workplaces where future generations will build their careers.

Events such as Accessibility in the City are vital because they bring together businesses, community organisations and disabled people to share experiences, learn from one another and drive meaningful change.

We are grateful to Sheriff of London Deputy Keith Bottomley and the City of London Corporation for hosting such an important event, and to all the panellists, organisations and attendees who contributed to the discussion.

RSBC looks forward to continuing our work with businesses, policymakers and partners to help create a more inclusive society where blind and partially sighted children and young people can realise their aspirations and live life without limits.