Gimmick or ambassadors for blind people? 

  • [Inline script in 'ct_top_tools_element_save_this_page' (7727) on page 'index/news/whatsinthepress/_gimmick_or_ambassadors_for_blind_people_.htm'] Line 13: ation. Now, for the first time, they have published a guide to Accessible Britain. With summer just round the corner, the BBC gave Ouch's Emma Bowler a copy to browse through for some ideas for disability-friendly days out
    

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The arrival of a blind contestant in the Big Brother house has already sparked a great deal of interest. But Damon Rose (right), who is himself blind, says he will be under great scrutiny.

Even in the run-up to the Big Brother launch, with national papers reporting the rumours, there was internet buzz between blind people.

A young blind woman posted to the messageboard of the BBC's Ouch! disability website: "I hope he or she is aware that they are representing the visually impaired community and give us a good name. I hope that they don't have awful blind habits, such as rocking or not looking at people when talking to them. I would like to hope that they will be normal."

She was hoping for a good portrayal, one that wouldn't negatively affect what others think of her when they meet her in the street or see her in front of them at a job interview. The worry is that that becomes the prevailing public view.

Read the full story on the BBC news magazine.