Risk of sight loss ignored

We are frequently being told about the worrying rise in obesity levels in the UK. But, what many people do not realise, is that people with a raised BMI (Body Mass Index) can be twice as likely to lose their sight as someone with a normal BMI….

Recent international research has confirmed that excess weight is a major risk factor in the onset and progression of many sight-threatening eye conditions.  For example:

• It can cause pulmonary problems which can lead to irrevocable damage to the delicate blood vessels in the eye
• It increases your risk of age-related macular degeneration – the UK’s leading cause of blindness; and
• It significantly increases your chances of developing cataracts or glaucoma.

With more than half of all adults in the UK above their recommended weight, and a worrying 23% classed as obese – so that’s a lot of people risking their sight.

A2i would like to remind all of our customers that it is generally recommended that everyone has an eye examination at least once every two years.  As well as highlighting problems with your sight and eyes, these tests can also bring to light several other underlying health problems such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes and an increased risk of stroke

Paper used for Braille reviewed – win a £20 gift card!

A2i’s user group – a group of visually impaired people who give us important feedback regarding our products and services - are currently reviewing the paper options available to A2i for our Braille production. A2i wants to start using recycled paper for our Braille, but we need to ensure that we do not loose anything in quality if we do change. Read on for more details….

Why is the user group reviewing the paper used for Braille?
Braille is one of A2i’s main products, and we therefore use a lot of thick paper for production every day. At A2i we are very aware of our environmental impact, and we are constantly striving to reduce the effect we have on our surroundings. We would, therefore, like to become more environmental friendly by switching to recycled paper for our Braille, but at the same time we need to make sure that the quality of Braille is still excellent for our customers. .

How is the user group involved?
The user group are reviewing Braille documents that have been sent to them on a range of paper types and thickness. Each member of the group will then complete a questionnaire and give their opinions about which paper they think is best. They will be taking several factors in to account.

How can I get involved?
Register as a member of User Group and we will contact you to see if you can take part in this questionnaire, or in any of our other activities coming up later on. Also, if you know any visually impaired people, you could invite them to join the user group.

Can I take part if I am not visually impaired?
Yes sure! The user group is not just for visually impaired people. We provide audio transcription services, which we may ask for feedback on late this year, and sighted people may be able to help with this.

Prizes!
Responses to our questionnaire about Braille paper that are received before 31st May 2010, will be entered into a prize draw to win a £5, £10 or £20 Tesco Gift Card.

If you would like more information or to get involved please go to our website and sign up at www.a2i.co.uk/usergroup or email usergroup@a2i.co.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Posting documents to A2i – wrong details

Toward the end of 2009 A2i moved premises, to accommodate our need for more space. The move has been very successful. However, we are still receiving post at our old address. Please ensure our new details are passed on to your finance departments in particular. Our new details are…

New address:
A2i Transcription Services Ltd
Unit 4 Montpelier Central
Station Road
Bristol
BS6 5EE

New phone number: 01179 44 00 44
New fax number: 0117 924 3226

Please let all finance people know.