Vis-Ability
Save Sight. Change Lives.
Vis-Ability a unique gathering of blind and vision impaired (VI) leaders and allies to discuss challenges and opportunities, build connections, and influence collectively. It continues to grow as a unique conference bringing together blind and VI leaders alongside senior figures from business, government, research and the charity sector.
It is designed for those who want to connect, contribute, and shape change.
Vis-Ability 2026
We welcomed over a 100 delegates who took part in a thoughtful, engaging afternoon that explored three critical themes shaping the future of eye health, accessibility and opportunity in the UK:
Technology – designing AI and emerging tools for inclusion
Employment – creating equitable workplaces and unlocking talent
Health – transforming eye care through innovation and the Life Sciences Sector plan
The programme included two keynote sessions from Richard Osman and The Rt Hon Pat McFadden, and a choice of panel discussions, offering space for insight, conversation and reflection. The day concluded with a networking reception.
In Conversation with Richard Osman and Emma Tracey
Richard is one of the UK’s best-known broadcasters, authors and presenters. He has spoken openly about living with nystagmus and the impact of sight loss, helping to bring greater visibility to conversations around disability, accessibility and inclusion through his honesty, insight and humour.
Richard was interviewed by Emma Tracey, senior reporter at the BBC and host of the Access All podcast. She specialises in covering disability, mental health and neurodivergence for radio, TV and online. Emma lives in Scotland with her husband and two young boys.
Pat McFadden
Pat McFadden was appointed Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on 5 September 2025. He was previously Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster between 5 July 2024 and 5 September 2025 and Minister for Intergovernmental Relations between 5 September 2024 and 6 September 2025.
He was elected as the MP for Wolverhampton South East in May 2005.
Vis-Ability 2025
The Westminster event brought together VI leaders, the technology sector, and politicians to discuss what can deliver a step change in getting people with vision impairments and those who are blind into employment.
Co hosted by Marsha de Cordova MP and Fight for Sight, we brought together over 140 influential leaders and allies to discuss how blind and vision-impaired people can make the most of artificial intelligence (AI).
