History

The National Blind Children’s Society (NBCS) was founded in December 1995 by Roderick Carne, who himself is registered blind. His belief was that a child who has a visual impairment and their parents, having come to terms with the burden of a disability, should not also have to struggle in the search for help in gaining what is rightfully theirs.

'As a blind person I found my old BBC computer a great help in completing Open University courses, plus I always liked to keep abreast of developments in access solutions.

On a visit to the West of England School for Children with little or no sight, I discovered there was a total absence of funding for the purchase of computers and specialist items of technology to help children with both their education and recreation. It was at this point I decided to resolve the issue and start a charity to fulfil this desperate need.

During my research and conversations with various people and agencies it soon became apparent that there was also a limited supply of reading material for children who were visually impaired unless they were able to read Braille. The only access children had to large print books was if the school photocopied and enlarged the text. Customised books with varying font sizes, some up to 1 inch high proved the obvious solution.

It was with these two goals in mind that I set out with a couple of friends as Trustees to raise funds to provide the resources necessary for both blind and partially sighted children and young people in order to assist them in achieving their educational potential and enable them to access the world of literature.' Rod Carne.

Just over ten years later, National Blind Children's Society has become a leading provider of Five Key Services offering, advice and support for blind and partially sighted children, their families and carers across the United Kingdom.

Although Rod is not involved in the charity any more for personal reasons, he is still highly regarded and attends most key functions the charity organises.