The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) has announced the appointment to the newly created role of Head of Social Change.
Sarah Lambert, former Head of Policy, Public Affairs and Volunteering at the National Autistic Society, started the role on 5 November 2018.
While at the National Autistic Society, Sarah was central to securing the Autism Act 2009, the first disability specific legislation in the UK. More recently she led her team to successfully ensure the proper recording of autism diagnosis waiting times by NHS England, and to end discrimination against autistic people who need a Blue Badge disabled parking permit. Prior to joining the National Autistic Society, she worked for a public affairs consultancy and the monitoring company Dehavilland.
At RNIB Sarah will join the charity’s Relationships directorate, leading the Policy and Campaigns team, and the External Communications team.
Sarah Lambert said: “I’m excited to be joining RNIB in its 150th year. With social change such a central part of RNIB’s refreshed strategy, I am looking forward to working alongside blind and partially sighted people to help remove the barriers preventing their equal participation in society.”
Sophie Castell, Director of Relationships at RNIB, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Sarah to RNIB as our new Head of Social Change in our 150th year.
“Our anniversary is a unique moment. It’s a time to look back and celebrate how the lives of blind and partially sighted people have been transformed. But it’s also a time for us to take stock and acknowledge the challenges that still exist. Our vision of the future is a world free of barriers for people with sight loss, Sarah’s role will play a fundamental part in renewing our commitment to overcoming these barriers.”