Wycombe Talking Newspaper

Wycombe Talking Newspaper is a UK-based registered charity (charity number 292194) that provides a free talking newspaper service primarily for people who are blind, visually impaired, or have other reading disabilities. It operates as a volunteer-run organization dedicated to recording and distributing local news content to those unable to access traditional print media.

History and Operations

Originally established to serve the Wycombe area, Wycombe Talking Newspaper focuses on delivering weekly recordings of articles primarily sourced from the Bucks Free Press and various other local journals. The service aims to ensure that visually impaired individuals remain informed about local news and events through accessible audio formats.

The organization has evolved and now operates under the name South Bucks Talking News, reflecting its broader service reach beyond the immediate Wycombe vicinity. Recordings are produced weekly by volunteers who read selected news items aloud, which are then made available to the charity's listeners.

Services

Wycombe Talking Newspaper offers an important community service by combating information exclusion among those with visual impairments. The recordings cover local news, features, and relevant community information, enhancing social inclusion and awareness for its audience. The service is provided free of charge to recipients, relying heavily on volunteer support and charitable funding to sustain its activities.

Governance

The charity is managed by a board of trustees who oversee its operations and compliance with regulatory requirements. Wycombe Talking Newspaper maintains up-to-date reporting with the Charity Commission, ensuring transparency and accountability in its financial and administrative affairs.

Impact

This service plays a critical role in enabling people with visual impairments in the Wycombe and South Bucks areas to access news and information independently. By offering a regular, accessible stream of local news, the charity supports the well-being and connectedness of its listeners within the community.

Wycombe Talking Newspaper is a valued example of volunteer-led initiatives making media accessible, facilitating inclusivity in local news consumption for visually impaired residents in Buckinghamshire.

[1] https://wycombetalkingnewspaper.org.uk/index.php [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/292194 [3] https://www.rnib.org.uk/sightline-directory/organisations/wycombe-talking-newspaper-9faf551a-7cbb-ee11-9078-6045bdf1e9b6/ [4] https://bopag.org.uk/wycombe-talking-newspaper/ [5] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/292194/trustees