If you have questions about Talk and Support telephone groups, please look through our comprehensive list of frequently asked questions. Here you will find answers to the questions we are most commonly asked about the telephone groups.
If you can't find the answer to your question in this list, then contact the Talk and Support team on 0845 330 3723 or 020 7391 2218 or email talkandsupport@rnib.org.uk
Costs and joining
Who will pay for the phone calls?
We pay for the cost of the call. The Talk and Support team will always call you to connect you to your telephone group.
How do I join a group?
To join a group, contact the Talk and Support team on 0845 330 3723 or 020 7391 2218 or email talkandsupport@rnib.org.uk
Taking part
Do I need any special equipment to take part in a telephone group?
You don't need any special equipment to take part in a telephone group. All you need is an ordinary landline telephone.
Can I take part in a group from a mobile phone?
Unfortunately because of the cost and disruption to the sound quality for the rest of the group, it is not possible for participants to take part in a telephone group using a mobile telephone.
Can I still take part if I have hearing loss?
If you are able to hold a conversation over the phone using a hearing aid or amplified phone, you will be able to take part in a telephone group, as many current participants do so successfully. If in doubt about how your hearing might affect your ability to take part in a telephone group, please contact the Talk and Support team who will be happy to discuss this with you.
How will I be connected to the group?
On the day and time of your telephone group, you will receive a phone call from a member of the Talk and Support team. They will introduce themselves and ask you if you are ready to join the group. You will then be transferred to the telephone group area where our friendly volunteer will be waiting to greet you.
How does a group of people talk together as part of a telephone group?
Speaking to a group of people over the telephone is very similar to sitting with a group of friends around a table. In order for the group to work well everyone must listen to each other. Participants let each other know when they arrive or leave the group so that you will always know who is present. Our friendly volunteer facilitator is trained to invite people into the conversation and to ensure that everyone has a chance to have their say.
Frequently asked questions for specific groups
Frequently asked questions about Telebefriending
Frequently asked questions about Telephone Book Clubs