The Dungannon & District Talking Newspaper Association

Public benefits

Dungannon & District Talking Newspaper Association – Public Benefit Statement Charity Purpose The object of the Association is to relieve the blind or partially blind or those labouring under some temporary or permanent incapacity or disability which makes reading a strain, by the provision of recordings.

What benefits flow from this purpose? The benefits that flow from this purpose include provision of audio recordings of newspapers and other printed material on a weekly basis for those that are blind or partially blind or for those who might find reading difficult due to another type if disability. This provides equal access to news and other important information. It helps people with disabilities, and in particular those blind or partially sighted, to feel a greater sense of inclusivity and belonging to wider society. It has also positive implications for the mental health of beneficiaries who have access to the audio recordings as it encourages the positive use of the mind, increases knowledge and reduces isolation. People with disabilities that prevent them from reading are also afforded greater independence as they do not have to rely on carers and family members to relay information to them. Carers and family members are also afforded some respite as people with a disability are able to be more independent. Can you demonstrate this? All of our work can be demonstrated by monitoring and evaluation of our work to determine the type and level of impact. This includes speaking with our beneficiaries and requesting oral feedback from them and carers/family members. Is any harm or possibility of harm outweighed by the benefit? There is no harm flowing from this purpose. Who is the benefit for? The primary beneficiaries of our work are people who are blind, partially blind or unable to read due to a particular disability or ailment. Our work primarily covers the area of Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council, but due to close proximity our work extends into Cookstown and Armagh Council areas. Is there any private benefit? Is it incidental or necessary? There is no private benefit which flows from this purpose. We have identified only an incidental benefit which is where Trustees may have a family member who avails of our service. However, it is important to note that everyone receives the same level of service. Trustees may also benefit from some training and support but this would be only directly related to their role as Trustees to allow them to fulfill their role effectively.

What your organisation does

We provide audio recordings of newspapers and other printed material on a weekly basis for those that are blind or partially blind or for those who might find reading difficult due to another type if disability. Our beneficiaries are primarily from the Dungannon & District Council area but also from the Cookstown & Armagh areas.