Produced in collaboration with leading sight loss charity, the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), the May edition is the first in a year-long campaign where all issues of British Vogue will be available in audio and Braille formats.

The first issue features 19 Disabled talents from across fashion, sport, the arts, and activism – representing some of the 16 million Disabled people living in the UK. The issue highlights how the fashion industry can be more inclusive and adapt to better support the Disabled community.

Vivienne Francis, RNIB’s Chief Social Change Officer, said: “British Vogue’s May issue goes a long way to challenging not just the fashion industry, but society, to be more inclusive and it’s fantastic to be working with them to make the Braille and audio versions a reality. Fashion sits at the heart of identity and can communicate who we are. This issue demonstrates that we can make fashion accessible to everyone. We hope that the impact of this issue leaves a lasting legacy in rethinking disability and that other people, and other brands, pick up the baton to consider how they can contribute to a more inclusive society.”

Edward Enninful, Editor-in-Chief, British Vogue wrote on Instagram: “The Vogue team and I are delighted by the response to the May issue, but what the process of making it taught us is that what’s most important are tangible and lasting changes. Vogue and the fashion and publishing industries have a great deal to do still, but it makes me very happy to see the arrival of these first Braille issues today.”

The Braille and audio formats of the May 2023 issue will be available from 5 May. Additionally, all issues of British Vogue for the next year will be available in audio format and for Braille readers in physical and digital formats.

Kimberley Burrows, a blind artist plans to buy British Vogue for the first time, now that it is available in Braille, she said: “This is a powerful step towards inclusivity and representation in the fashion industry. By spotlighting disabled talent, trailblazers, advocates, and change makers, British Vogue is challenging the industry to take a long-overdue look at the way it has historically excluded people like me. This issue is an important reminder that disability is not a limitation or a barrier to beauty, creativity, or success. As a blind artist, with a strong interest in beauty and fashion, it is deeply encouraging and refreshing.”

To be sent the audio file, to print a Braille file of the issue at home for free, or to register your interest in receiving a physical Braille copy, email accessiblevogue@condenast.co.uk

RNIB’s Business Services team can help you understand the needs of people with disabilities to ensure your business is inclusive. Find out more here.