Amateur radio is an accessible, fun hobby for everyone – but, in particular, due its focus on audio, to those experiencing sight loss.

With even a relatively cheap set up (costing around £50), amateur radio users can talk to people all over the world (and even beyond – Isle of Man radio users have spoken to the astronauts on the International Space Station on numerous occasions!).

Because of this, Sight Matters is organising an Amateur Radio Open Day at Corrin Court (in the Freedom Field) on September 16 between 10am and 4pm. The event, which is open to all, will give anyone interested in getting into amateur radio an insight into what it is and how to get involved. The event will be hosted by local expert HAM radio users and will give participants a chance to get hands-on experience with amateur radio gear, have a go at MORSE code and even have an on-air chat.

Several Sight Matters members are amateur radio users. For some, it was a way to maintain and build social relationships during lockdown. In fact, one Sight Matters’ member passed the amateur radio exam after the Sight Matters’ team liaised with the examining body in order to make it more accessible for those with sight loss. This member remains an enthusiastic amateur radio user to this day, and regularly chats with people across the UK.

If you’d like to find out more about amateur radio and have a go yourself, we’d encourage you to come along to the open day and get involved.  

If you have any questions about the open day, please call on 674727 or email enquiries@sightmatters.im.