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EnglishWho Can Join BCA and What Support Does It Offer?
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BCA – Bringing Chess To Visually Impaired People is open to visually impaired chess players and learners, and also to sighted people who want to help. You do not need to read or write Braille to take part. The organisation says it currently supports over 150 visually impaired players and learners, alongside more than 70 members without a visual impairment who assist in a variety of ways.
Who the organisation is for
BCA describes itself as bringing chess to visually impaired people. Its membership falls into two broad groups:
- Visually impaired players and learners – people who want to play chess, learn the game, or take part in organised chess activity.
- Sighted members and volunteers – people without a visual impairment who support BCA's activities in various roles.
The name includes "Braille" because Braille was a major part of BCA's activities when it was founded in the 1930s. However, the site states clearly that Braille is not a requirement. Some members use it as a medium; others do not.
What support is available
BCA's site points to several resources and activities:
| Support | What it is |
|---|---|
| How We Play guide | A detailed written description of how visually impaired people play chess |
| Introductory video | "How Visually Impaired People Play Chess – Introduction" |
| Chess Notes for Beginners | Available as an audio resource and as a Word file |
| News and events | Items such as the Graham Lilley Award, a match against the Parliamentary Chess Club, Chess Fest, the BCA British Champion, and the New Year Cup |
The beginner notes in both audio and Word formats are useful if you are new to chess or new to playing without sight. The "How We Play" link is the place to start if your main question is how the game works in practice.
How to decide whether to get involved
Ask yourself three questions:
- Are you or your relative visually impaired and interested in chess? BCA is built around exactly this group, and the site says it supports over 150 visually impaired players and learners.
- Do you want to help rather than play? BCA has over 70 members without a visual impairment who assist in a variety of ways, so there is a route in for sighted supporters.
- Are you worried about Braille? It is not needed. Braille is part of BCA's history and some members use it, but the organisation states it is not a requirement.
If the answer to the first or second question is yes, the next step is to explore the "How We Play" page and the beginner resources, then look at the news and events to see what is currently running.