CultureLink South East is a partnership project led by RNIB with the support of a number of heritage organisations. The five external partners are:

• Oxford University Museums in Oxfordshire
• Canterbury Museums and Galleries
• Lewes Castle in Sussex, part of the Sussex Archaeological Society
• The Conan Doyle Collection in Portsmouth, part of Portsmouth Council and Libraries
• The Royal Pavilion & Museums across Brighton and Hove

The projects aims to increase independence by training staff and volunteers at the heritage sites so that they understand the impact of sight loss and think about the ways they can support visitors to have a positive learning experience.

Technology, audio description and tactile panels will be used to make the sites more interactive.

Jon Petty, Head of Operations at RNIB Solutions, said: "The CultureLink South East project will deliver a clear message that a shared experience of museums, galleries and heritage is a right for everyone. Projects such as these have a positive impact on creating a more inclusive society, where blind and partially sighted people don’t have to miss out on enjoyable experiences such as visiting museums and heritage sites."

Stuart McLeod, Head of HLF South East, said: “This is a wonderful example of the real difference money raised by National Lottery players can make to our communities and our heritage. By forming partnerships and sharing ideas and resources, this project will go a long way to making the South East’s rich heritage more accessible for blind and partially sighted people. We’re delighted to play a funding role.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing sight loss, visit the RNIB website, or call the RNIB Helpline 0303 123 9999 to find out more about the range of support that’s available.

Notes to editors

Every 15 minutes, someone in the UK begins to lose their sight. The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is here for everyone affected by sight loss - that's almost 2million people in the UK. If you, or someone you know, has a sight problem, RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit the RNIB website.

Further information

For more information, please contact Rachel Harby, RNIB Senior Public Relations Officer, on 020 7391 2043 or 020 7391 2223, email rachel.harby@rnib.org.uk.