Braillists Foundation

The Braillists Foundation is a charitable incorporated organisation registered in England and Wales (charity number 1187244) dedicated to advancing the education, social inclusion, and independence of blind and visually impaired people through the promotion and support of braille literacy and technology. Established in January 2020, the Foundation has rapidly grown to become a significant advocate for braille users within the United Kingdom and beyond.

History and Background

The Braillists Foundation originated from a focus group associated with Bristol Braille Technology, makers of the Canute 360 braille e-reader. During discussions, participants identified considerable challenges faced by braille users, including the need for accessible braille training for adults, repair and maintenance of braille equipment, and access to braille reading materials. Recognizing these gaps, the group formed an organisation to address these issues and support the growing community of braille users. The Foundation was officially incorporated as a nonprofit in 2020 and has since developed a comprehensive website, a strong board of trustees, and a program of events and courses[5].

Mission and Aims

The Braillists Foundation's mission focuses on three primary goals:

• Promoting the value of braille as a proven literacy tool that enriches the lives of blind people.
• Supporting efforts to make affordable braille and tactile reading technologies accessible to all blind individuals, regardless of their education or employment status.
• Providing an open forum for exchanging ideas about developing future braille technology and innovation[1][3][5].

Activities and Services

The Foundation offers a wide range of services to support braille users, including:

• Braille Education and Training: They provide high-quality, accessible braille courses such as the "Braille for Beginners" program, which helps hundreds of adults learn to read braille by touch free of charge. The course includes printed materials, pre-recorded lessons, and tutor support via email and Zoom. Additional courses serve children and adults, focusing on braille reading by touch or sight[1].

• Braille Equipment Support: The Foundation offers information and guidance on braille equipment maintenance, particularly Perkins Brailler repairs, and supplies resources for purchasing braille hardware and consumables such as braille paper[1].

• Community and Well-being: They facilitate social activities and provide support to enhance the wellbeing of braille users, fostering a strong and connected braille community[4].

• Transcription and Reading Services: The Foundation supports transcription services and promotes access to braille reading materials[4].

Impact and Recognition

The Braillists Foundation has become a leading grassroots community group, connecting braille readers with technology developers, funders, and service providers. Its innovative programs and advocacy have substantially increased braille literacy and accessibility for blind and visually impaired people in the UK and internationally[4][5].

Governance

The Foundation operates under a Board of Trustees and functions as a registered charity (number 1187244) committed to transparency, collaboration, and the empowerment of braille users[3][5].

The Braillists Foundation continues to champion braille literacy and technology as essential tools for independence and inclusion, striving to ensure that all blind people have the opportunity to benefit from braille throughout their lives.

[1] https://www.braillists.org [2] https://www.braillists.org/contact/ [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1187244&subid=0 [4] https://www.rnib.org.uk/sightline-directory/organisations/braillists-foundation-3ce1adad-d5b2-46b0-9970-882ac64dcd65/ [5] https://www.afb.org/aw/23/1/17826