Audiologist Cochlear Deafness no of the Year implant bar to going competition record to the top Page 6 Page 2 Page 7

Issue 4 February 2009 www.hearingtimes.co.uk Most people support free hearing test for over-55s By Gemma Davidson everyone over the age of 55 would give people an average of nine years A leading charity is putting pressure with a better quality of life. on the government to introduce free Jackie Ballard, chief executive of hearing tests for everyone over the RNID, said: ‘These figures show that age of 55. there is an appetite for a hearing The RNID (Royal National Institute screening programme. for the Deaf) and the Co-Operative ‘The people of the UK value their Group have recently hearing and they want published the government to research, which show that they do, indicates that the too,’ she added. majority of people Ms Ballard says are in favour of a that – with an ageing nationwide screening population – the UK is programme. facing a ‘hearing loss Over 1,000 people time-bomb’. participated in the The news follows the ALARM CALL: Former England footballer Bryan Robson (right) joined (l-r) actors Alan survey, which showed launch of a partner- Halsall (Coronation Street) and Sue Jenkins (Brookside) and Jackie Ballard of the Royal an overwhelming ship between the National Institute for the Deaf to launch a fundraising campaign on behalf of the RNID percentage agreeing RNID and The Co-Op- to get the public to wake up to hearing loss. See page 3 for the full story. with the screening erative Group, with a proposal. series of fundrais- The charity esti- The RNID says 4m people are ing initiatives to raise mates that there are 4 unaware of their hearing loss awareness of hearing Deaf puppy resorts million people in the UK loss. who could benefit from wearing hear- Peter Marks, chief executive of The to sign language ing aids, but are unaware. Co-operative Group, says: ‘We are de- A dog charity recently found itself According to the RNID’s survey lighted that RNID is our charity of the with a rather unique addition. evidence, more than 90% of those year and I know our staff and mem- Snowy, a Jack Russell puppy, was questioned felt that there should be a bers will have great fun raising money handed into Dog’s Trust in Salisbury national hearing screening programme for this worthwhile charity. because she was deaf, but she has for the over-55s. ‘Behind the fun, however, lies a seri- since baffled experts by learning to Among the over-55s themselves, ous message. Thousands of people communicate in a way that most dogs 88% said they would like to be able to are being isolated by their hearing never do – by learning sign language. take advantage of such a programme. loss and that is why we are supporting Miniature pup Snowy was handed The RNID says that hearing prob- the RNID’s campaign to establish free over to the charity because of her lems that are not picked up can lead hearing tests for everyone aged over deafness, but now, at just four months to social isolation. 55.’ old, she is already learning the signs However, the charity says, testing Continued on page 5 for sit, stop, and good girl. NICE issues new guidelines on cochlear implants – turn to page 3 2 News hearing times  February 2009

Readers’ letters Editorial

seem to be a thing of the past, and your second issue (November) is an Make a noise about TV’s anyway venue owners found a way to exception and underlines the poor distracting background bypass the box so the band didn’t get situation that occurs in most NHS Say hello to turned off. hospitals. Dear Editor, Presumably the (Norwich) city coun- Many NHS managers (and the RNID) I am outraged: the background noise cil has sacked any Health and Safety seem to imagine that the issue of the Hearing in television programmes is quite un- employees who might have had the a digital hearing aid ‘cures’ hearing necessary. The BBC is ignorant and job of checking venues for the volume loss, so – unfortunately – reduction arrogant – one day they will probably of music played. of waiting times for new hearing aids Times team! be deaf themselves and then they will In the ’60s, a popular guitar ampli- has received most attention. Sadly, in Welcome to the fourth issue of know what it is like. Keep up the fier had an output of 30watts, and many areas, this has been achieved Hearing Times. As this is the first attack, Hearing Times. bands often used it to amplify all their solely by staff overtime and group fit- subscription-only issue, I thought Mrs D. Southern, instruments as well as voices. It was ting sessions rather than any overall I would take the opportunity to Carlisle quite loud enough for most pubs. My improvement in the facilities and staff introduce myself and the rest of four-piece band today has various levels. the Hearing Times team, and let amplifiers with a total power of about A major problem which is currently you know what is going on at HT Hearing aids cost more 2,000 watts – talk about overkill ! arising is the review of patients’ hear- headquarters this month. I wear plugs to protect my ears, but ing loss after three years of use. This My name is Gemma Davidson, than restricting decibels what about the audience? If a pub was identified in the BookletBest and I joined the team as editor in plays music through a 50watt stereo Practice Standards for Adult Audiology June 2008, having graduated from Dear Editor, system with good speakers, it is quite published and issued jointly by the Southampton Solent University in In the early 1970s, I first became loud enough. RNID and the Department of Health 2007 with a degree in media and aware of the fact that amplified music Surely noise restrictions make a lot in July 2002. This review should be cultural studies. Since joining, I was much too loud in pubs and dance- more sense than having a largely deaf carried out proactively to ensure that have travelled all over the UK and halls. The morning after a boogie, my population, and will be cheaper to the the aid is still tuned to the patient’s beyond, conducting interviews ears would still be ringing… taxpayer in the long term than millions current hearing loss. (In the private with very interesting people and I’m now a 60-yr-old rock musician, of hearing aids? sector and with spectacles, this review collecting news stories for the pages. and I am still waiting for the Govern- Old Rocker, is carried out every year.) Hearing Times made its debut at ment and local authorities to take Norwich Very few NHS audiology departments the EUHA audiology convention action to prevent loss of hearing from have a proactive review programme in Germany in October 2008, and amplified music. My band plays in and rely entirely on the patient­ refer- will soon be hopping over the pond pubs, and one of them has a box on NHS digital aids require ring themselves via their GP. to attend the American Association the wall with green/orange/red lights It would help considerably if news- of Audiologists (AAA) convention to tell you when the noise gets too more than just fitting papers such as yours emphasised in Dallas, Texas, in April. I am loud. to patients that they should present really pleased with the way our The original purpose of these boxes Dear Editor, themselves for a re-test at least every newspaper is continuing to grow was to turn off the power to the stage Considering that most people with a three years to ensure that they get and be recognised, and I sincerely area when the volume got too high, hearing aid obtain them from an NHS the best performance from their digital hope this trend continues over the and I have enjoyed the spectacle of audiology department, I find it disap- hearing aid. coming issues. We have also made an idiotic loud band being switched off pointing that there is so little in your John Beadle, some great friends along the way, repeatedly because they didn’t get the newspaper devoted to this sector. Ex-member of Patient and Public including out newest over at The message! Unfortunately, these boxes However, the article on page 12 of Involvement Forum, KENT LINK Deaf Blog.co.uk, who have agreed to share their stories with us, and vice versa. Vincent Dawe is our layout designer and sub-editor. Vincent joined Hearing Times in December. Two-year-old girl is youngest Vincent does the invaluable task of laying out the pages of the newspaper and making sure that all the news fits in. Vincent also works in UK to get cochlear implant on Independent Practitioner Today, the business magazine for doctors A baby girl who was born deaf can and discovered cochlear implants. We with a private practice. now hear after becoming one of the knew if you have them young, it is The behind-the-scenes team youngest people in Britain to have a better for speech and language devel- consists of Sue Kelson, the editorial cochlear implant. opment.’ and advertising co-ordinator, and Ava Pearson, who is two in March, The couple decided to pay to have Guy Peppiatt, who is in control of can listen to bedtime stories and jiggle the implants at the private Portland advertising. Sue is the lady you will about to music thanks to the life- hospital in the West End. The cost, speak to when you contact Hearing changing operation. plus a year of speech therapy at the Times to subscribe, and Guy is She is even starting to speak after hospital and back-up equipment, is the man to speak to in regards to being given an implant in one ear almost £52,000 and is being paid out advertising rates and the options when she was nine months old and of the family’s health insurance. available to advertisers. If you a second one in the other ear three Mr Pearson said: ‘We knew that would like to contact them, their months later. time was of the essence and that it email addresses are: Ava’s speech therapist says her wouldn’t be as fast on the NHS.’ [email protected] and language skills are now ahead of other Speech therapist Natalie Opitz, who [email protected], or you can children the same age. works at the Portland, said: ‘Ava is phone 0845 2930688. Her mother, Lauren, 31, from Belsize the youngest baby I have seen have Our freelance writing team Park, London, said: ‘One week after the operation in this country. This is consists of Chris Attewell-Hughes, the operation she started dancing to a remarkable case but it could be the our theatre critic, Melissa Mostyn, music and then four weeks later she norm for all deaf children.’ our regular columnist, and William said her first word, “Mama”, which was A spokeswoman for the Royal Jeremy, our house poet. If you huge for me. National Institute for Deaf people would like to write for Hearing ‘I realised she could hear when she said children are typically given the Times, please get in touch with kept pushing the top of a toy which Ava Pearson: one week after her implant implants on the NHS aged between me. My email address is gemma@ played music and she started swaying operation she started dancing to music one and three but waiting lists for the hearingtimes.co.uk. to the tune. I couldn’t believe it. Previ- operation vary across the country. I would like to thank you again for ously, a siren could have gone past realised Ava was deaf when she didn’t She added: ‘The RNID wants to see reading Hearing Times. If you have and she wouldn’t have reacted. react to routine hearing tests at the a national framework that gives equal not yet subscribed and would like to ‘When she started babbling, it was age of three weeks. access to all those who would benefit do so, please turn to page 14 where amazing – before that, she only made Mr Pearson said: ‘We were very more from a cochlear implant than you will find a form to fill in and guttural noises that she could feel upset and it was a complete shock – from hearing aids.’ send back to us. in her chest.’ Mrs Pearson, a book there was no history of deafness in the Ava is continuing to do well, and her P.S. Don’t forget to check out our publisher, and her husband Chris, a family. favourite phrase at the moment is: website! www.hearingtimes.co.uk 31-year-old finance manager, first ‘Lauren started scouring the internet ‘What’s that noise?’ February 2009  hearing times news 3

Co-operative venture: TV soap stars Police face and a former Engand footballer

Photo: courtesyPhoto: of RNI D massive bill joined Co-op workers to launch for hearing the RNID’s fundraising drive and loss claims awareness POLICE chiefs could face a staggering campaign £400m compensation bill to pay thou- entitled sands of officers who have sued for ‘Wake up to hearing loss, it has been revealed. Hearing Loss’ The original estimate was £90m but it has now emerged that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) could pay more than four times that amount. It is understood the number of for- mer and serving policemen and wom- en seeking damages has risen dramat- ically in recent months, with around 22,000 claimants now involved. The claims relate to firearms training conducted in the 1970s and ’80s when officers were not offered ear defenders on shooting ranges. Co-op put fun into The payout for hearing damage set by the courts stands at a minimum of £15,000. The new estimates were revealed by Northern Ireland Policing Board member Basil McCrea, who called RNID fundraising on the Government to come up with A cold Monday in January saw the The company hopes to raise over During the course of the partnership, the money. ‘Westminster must set grand launch of a nationwide brand’s £2m for the RNID this year with the RNID aims to test the hearing of over aside a separate fund to deal with partnership with deafness charity, the help of members and customers. one million people and will campaign these legacy issues from the Troubles, Royal National Institute for the Deaf Staff across the Co-operative’s busi- to ensure that, in future, everyone because the police simply don’t have (RNID). nesses, including food retail, travel, over the age of 55 is invited to have the resources,’ said the Ulster Unionist The Co-Operative Group has named funerals, pharmacy, banking, insur- their hearing tested on the NHS as Member of the Legislative Assembly. the RNID as their charity for 2009, ance and farming will be taking part. standard. (See the front page for full While the incidents occurred in the and kick-started the year with a host All money collected at local stores will details of the campaign). era of the Royal Ulster Constabulary, of fundraising events across the UK. directly benefit people who are deaf or RNID is also launching a free inter- the current service has to cough up One such event included a giant hard of hearing in the region. net hearing check at www.rnid.org.uk/ any compensation payment. alarm clock and staff at a Co-Opera- The Co-operative Group’s chief ex- hearingmatters and already provides a The service, which has an annual tive Travel branch dressed up in pyja- ecutive Peter Marks said: ‘People who telephone hearing check on 0844 800 operating budget of around £1.2bn, mas and night-caps for their ‘Wake up are deaf and hard of hearing can miss 3838. is currently struggling in the face of a to Hearing Loss’ campaign. out on a full life and become incredibly Emma Harrison, Director of Exter- £130m cut to its funding over the next The Co-operative branch manager isolated from their family, friends and nal Affairs, RNID says: ‘Hearing loss three years. in Barnstaple, Claire Netherway, said: the community. affects one in seven people in the UK, Northern Ireland’s Chief Constable ‘Coming to work in our pyjamas is ‘With the help of our ever-supportive yet it can take people up to 15 years Sir Hugh Orde was forced to withdraw bound to get us some strange looks staff, customers and members, RNID to address it. With an ageing popula- £40m from next year’s budget just to from customers, but if we can raise can make a massive difference to mil- tion we are facing a hearing loss time balance the books this year. money for this worthwhile cause and lions of people in the UK who are deaf bomb and we want to ensure those More than 500 officers have already give people a wake-up call about their and hard of hearing so they don’t have who aren’t hearing as well as they successfully claimed for hearing dam- hearing, it’ll be a dream come true.’ to suffer in silence.’ used to lead a fulfilling and active life.’ ages worth around £5.5m. NICE advice on cochlear implants The National Institute for Health and implantation is recommended as an bilateral implantation, should have the How to contact us Clinical Excellence (NICE) has pub- option for the following groups of option of an additional implant in the We would like to know what you lished final guidance on the use of people with severe to profound deaf- other ear if this is considered to pro- think of Hearing Times! cochlear implants for severe to pro- ness who do not receive adequate vide sufficient benefit by the clinician If you have any comments or benefit from acoustic hearing aids. found deafness in children and adults. after an informed discussion with the questions, or have a story you Unilateral cochlear implantation is This includes children and adults who individual person and their carers. recommended as an option for people are blind or who have other disabilities The guidance also states that co- would like to tell us about, please with severe to profound deafness who that increase their reliance on auditory chlear implantation should only be let us know. do not receive adequate benefit from stimuli as a primary sensory mecha- considered after an assessment by Email: acoustic hearing aids. If different co- nism for spatial awareness. a multidisciplinary team. As part of [email protected] chlear implant systems are considered Bilateral cochlear implantation car- the assessment, children and adults Phone: 0845 2930688 to be equally appropriate, the least ried out in separate operations is not should also have had a valid trial of an Web: www.hearingtimes.co.uk costly should be used. Assessment of recommended as an option for people acoustic hearing aid for at least three Write to: Hearing Times Ltd cost should take into account acquisi- with severe to profound deafness. months. When assessing the adequacy The Lansbury Estate, tion costs, long-term reliability, and However, people who had a unilateral of acoustic hearing aids, the multidis- 102 Lower Guildford Road, the support package offered. implant before now, and who fall into ciplinary team should be mindful of Woking, Surrey, GU21 2EP Simultaneous bilateral cochlear one of the categories described for the need to ensure equality of access.

A national charity for deaf parents has announced plans education and for information to be provided to increase in a deaf-friendly environment and for deaf parents to for its 2009 conference, with a huge emphasis placed awareness and enable professionals in childcare, nursery, meet other deaf parents. The theme of the conference will on education. Deaf Parenting UK is holding the meeting, primary and secondary schools to effect positive change focus on: educating professionals about the needs of deaf entitled ‘Education, Education, Education’, on 12 June in to meet deaf parents’ needs in education.’ The charity will parents; accessing children’s education – vital for deaf London. It is being billed as ‘a great opportunity for deaf provide family fun activities for children of deaf parents. parents; and educating deaf parents on their entitlements. parents and service providers to raise concerns about This is a great opportunity for children to be entertained If you would like to attend, email [email protected]. 4 News hearing times  FEbruary 2009 Fire service Morrisvan grasps issue courtesyPhoto: of E of unheard fire alarms Brigade creates new position to help deaf people prepare for fire

A FIRE Service has created a new post fitted, a home safety assessment is within its organisation to help people be carried out giving deaf and hard of with hearing loss be better prepared in hearing people access to potential life- the event of a fire. saving advice about the prevention of In joint partnership with Deafness fire and what to do in case of fire. Support Network, Cheshire Fire & At events around the county, Mela- Rescue Service have employed a Deaf nie frequently meets people who don’t Persons Advocate who visits residents realise this service is here for them, in Cheshire, Warrington and Halton and to get the message out to the who have a hearing loss and wouldn’t deaf communities Melanie has been be woken by their smoke alarm. involved in presentations using BSL Melanie Pitts, who is profoundly deaf at local deaf clubs, day centres and to herself and communicates by using staff who work in the deaf community. Pitts special: BSL user Melanie Pitts teaches fire safety to a class of deaf people BSL and lip-reading, has been working Melanie said: ‘The response has to promote fire safety in deaf and hard been very positive and the peace of If you would like a home safety assessment or more information, of hearing people’s homes for a year. mind that deaf people feel in under- please contact: She aims to provide a direct and standing how to prevent a fire start- Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service HQ, Community Safety, Winsford, Cheshire practical impact through carrying out ing or spreading and knowing they do CW7 2FQ Phone: 01606 868465. assessments and installing specialist not need to rely on someone to wake Email: [email protected] smoke alarms which have a flashing them in case of a fire has given many Deafness Support Network, 144 London Road, Northwich, Cheshire CW9 5HH light and vibrating pad which wakes independence in their own home.’ Phone: 01606 47831. Minicom: 01606 350823 someone if the smoke alarm sounds. Melanie continues to work with local Fax: 01606 49456 This service is free and available deaf communities and individuals to If you do not live in the Cheshire area, please contact your local fire to anyone who lives in the Cheshire promote fire safety and support im- authority for more information on services in your area. area. As well as having a smoke alarm proved services for deaf people. Sound advice on the perils of ear infection A leading research charity is offer- which parents can support their child scribed needlessly for children’s ear at an early stage,’ added Dr William- ing practical advice to parents worried and prevent further problems. conditions in many cases. son, a practising GP. about their child’s ear infection. Vivienne Michael, chief executive ‘Ear conditions and their root causes If a child has a tendency to get ear Deafness Research UK has produced of Deafness Research UK, said: ‘Part are not necessarily best tackled by infections, they should be seen by a leaflet advising parents on a range of the problem is that parents lack antibiotics,’ he warned. ‘We are con- their GP so that they can be accurately of conditions, including glue ear. knowledge about what to do if their cerned that time pressure on the NHS monitored and suitable treatment pre- According to the NICE report 2008 child has recurring or persistent ear – combined with a deeply held cultural scribed. For children with possible glue on Surgical Management of Otitis problems. myth by the public that antibiotics are ear, the GP should keep a close eye Media with Effusion in children, around ‘It is important parents should be a cure-all – means that many children on symptoms for up to three months, 200,000 children suffer from repeated aware that antibiotics only and parents aren’t receiv- during which time the child’s hearing ear infections or glue ear each year in help a small proportion of ing the best advice possible is likely to be tested to see if referral the UK. Although the majority of ear children with ear infections, on how to treat and pre- for specialist treatment is appropriate. infections clear up naturally, there is a and are not recommended at vent ear infections.’ Parents’ observations about their danger that potentially more serious all in the treatment of glue Overuse of antibiot- child’s symptoms can be crucial in cases are being overlooked and, whilst ear,’ she advised. ics encourages antibiotic helping a GP to make an accurate di- rare, the bacteria that cause ear infec- Historically, incidences of resistance and can reduce agnosis. The signs that a child has one tions can lead to complications such as children’s ear infections in children’s ability to fight of these conditions can vary greatly pneumonia and meningitis. the UK reach a peak be- further infection in the and fluctuate even within the course of Where the conditions cause hearing tween January and March approxi- future. ‘Good’ bacteria often present a day. But without correct diagnosis, loss because the middle ear becomes mately, so it is crucial parents see a naturally in the throat, nose and stom- the right treatment may not be given. filled with fluid, younger children in copy of the leaflet now. ach may protect against infections of With good knowledge parents can do particular can have problems with lan- Ian Williamson, adviser to Deafness many types. a lot to help their child, so Deafness guage development and speech. Research UK, and a senior lecturer ‘We are particularly concerned about Research UK’s new leaflet was circu- The leaflet is full of practical tips in general practice at Southampton children with repeat ear infections; lated to 6,000 GP surgeries in January, and guidance and contains the latest University, said: ‘The NHS needs to these children need to be identified and can also be obtained directly from medical thinking on these conditions, adopt a more holistic approach to ear for special attention and may suffer Deafness Research UK. Phone 0808 describing the range of possible symp- conditions; there is a general problem developmentally if the root causes of 808 2222 or email info@deafnessre- toms, current treatments and ways in whereby antibiotics are being pre- their ear problems are not addressed search.org.uk. february 2009  hearing times news 5 Hearing aid Progressive hearing queues are diminishing, loss ‘taken seriously’ survey shows The Government has responded spokesperson said. ‘If there is new to adapt to wearing a hearing aid or A SURVEY has shown that waiting positively to the Royal National In- evidence to support a screening pro- learn to lip read. Early identification of times for hearing aids has been dra- stitute for The Deaf People’s (RNID) gramme for hearing, then the NSC will hearing loss also improves a person’s matically reduced in some areas of the survey about screening the hearing of review it.’ prospect of remaining active in work country. people over the age of 55. Richard Williams, director of RNID and their community,’ he added. The average waiting time is now 18 It says that it takes the problem of Cymru, said: ‘We already have routine The Government says it is now pub- weeks from referral from GP to having progressive hearing loss ‘very serious- newborn hearing screening in Wales, lishing – for the first time – figures for a hearing aid fitted in North Essex – in ly’, and that if there is sufficient evi- but there’s no programme in place for patients who are referred directly to January 2008 it was 84 weeks, a cut dence, the matter would be reviewed. older people developing age-related audiology services. These show that of more than three-quarters. ‘The UK National Screening Commit- hearing loss. Hearing screening by GPs waiting times for a diagnostic assess- Currently almost 94% of patients tee (NSC) advises the UK Government would improve access to full diagnostic ment have been reduced significantly. visiting the audiology department at on whether there is sufficient evidence hearing tests and hearing aid services. In October 2006, when figures were Colchester Hospital NHS Trust are hav- to introduce a national screening ‘The sooner someone’s hearing loss first collected, the average wait was ing their hearing aid fitted within 18 programme,’ a Department of Health is identified, the better they’re able almost 26 weeks. It is now 2.2 weeks. weeks, and bosses are confident they will reach the 95 per cent national target by the end of March. Acting audiology services manager Lesley Chapman said: ‘This reduction TV breakthrough for deaf people has been achieved thanks to additional funding from NHS North East Essex, A NEW organisation has been set up of sign presented programming each which pays for the service, and the to deliver new and exciting TV pro- month between 7am and 11pm or hard work of staff. grammes to the deaf community using introduce alternative arrangements, ‘We’ve been holding evening and sign language. proposed by broadcasters, to provided Saturday clinics to help us increase The British Sign Language Broad- better assistance for deaf people using the capacity needed to bring about casting Trust (BSLBT) was set up in sign language. this huge reduction in waiting times.’ 2008 by both the deaf and broadcast- Larger channels should continue to Patients needing a hearing aid have ing communities to commission new provide sign interpreted programming, two appointments – one for an assess- programming, which viewers have as these services are seen by more ment of their hearing and a second for been enjoying since the end of Janu- sign language users and so continue the fitting of a hearing aid. ary 2009. to benefit users. Since 2002 the audiology depart- The trust has appointed Terry Riley The majority of the smaller channels ment staff have fitted a total of 16,590 as the interim chief executive, to drive affected by this change have opted to digital hearing aids, which are replac- the initiative forward. Terry has a fund the trust to produce sign present- ing the old-style analogue hearing wealth of experience both of the deaf ed programmes that will be broadcast aids. community and deaf television broad- on the Community Channel from Janu- In 2007 the Department of Health casting with the BBC. Research and feedback collected by ary 2009 in place of sign interpreted announced it was committed to tack- From now on, programmes including TV regulator Ofcom revealed that very programming on their own channels. ling waiting times. sign interpretation (where a signer is few sign language users benefited Among the initial scheduling is a featured in the corner of the screen) from sign-interpreted programmes on show called Wicked, presented by Mi- will no longer be broadcast on many the smaller digital channels. chelle Hull and Brian Duffy, which will of the smaller digital TV channels. In- The evidence indicated that sign include items on: stead these channels are funding sign language users prefer programming • How bullying impacts on the men- Trail-blazing presented programming which will be made specifically for deaf people and tal health of young deaf people; shown on the Community Channel’s presented in sign language. The BBC’s • The experience of the deaf com- new BSL zone. SeeHear is an example of sign pre- munity in Northern Ireland during health centre Viewers can tune in on Freeview sented programming. the ‘Troubles’; channel 87, Sky channel 539 and In 2007, Ofcom conducted a consul- • A look at the work of Gamelab, a opens its door Virgin channel 233 on Wednesday and tation, Signing on Television, which company making educational soft- Saturdays at 8am on Freeview, and concluded that channels with small ware for young deaf children; A state-of-the-art community 8am, 2pm and 8pm on Sky and Virgin. audiences (between 0.05% and 1% • Plus interviews with award-winning centre which is set to transform health Programmes are also available on of the UK audience) should no longer deaf role model, Sabina Iqbal, and care in Rotherham has finally open its Sundays at 6am on Freeview, and provide sign interpreted programming, with BSLBT chief executive Terry doors to the public. 6am, 12pm, 6pm and midnight on Sky and that instead these channels must Riley. The new Rotherham Community and Virgin. either transmit at least 30 minutes Wicked starts on 1 April. Health Centre opened in January, bringing together a number of health From Wednesday 21 January 2009, you can watch sign-presented programming at the following times: services under one roof, providing easier access for patients. Wednesdays and Saturdays: 8am (Freeview 87, Sky 539 and Virgin TV 233), 2pm, 8pm and 2am next day (Sky 539 Most of the services have been and Virgin TV 233) transferred from the old Doncaster Sundays: 6am (Freeview 87, Sky 539 and Virgin TV 233), 12 noon, 6pm and midnight (Sky 539 and Virgin TV 233) Gate Hospital, including ear care, Sign-interpreted programming speech and language therapy, physio- BBC1 BBC News ITV2 S4C Disney Cinemagic therapy, podiatry, phlebotomy, con- BBC2 CBBC ITV3 five Cartoon Network traception and sexual health services. BBC3 CBeebies Chennel 4 Disney Channel Sky Sport 1 And a walk-in centre will be up and BBC4 ITV1 E4 Playhouse Disney running from early February. ‘Rotherham’s new primary care centre will provide first class facilities for some of the most important health Free training opportunity for young deaf people services used by Rotherham people,’ said Duncan Smales, commissioning Deaf Communities Forward has an- ship and teamwork exercises, as well advised to book early to avoid disap- and change manager for NHS Rother- nounced details of its 2009 Leaders of as outdoor activities. The skills gained pointment. The next course will run ham (formerly the PCT). Tomorrow Level 1 weekends for young will prepare participants to work as from 30 October to 1 November 2009. ‘The new walk-in centre, which will deaf people aged between 16 and 24 a group leader at Deaf Communities For further information, contact also be open on weekends and bank years old. Forward’s annual Deaf Camp event. Deaf Communities Forward: Phone: holidays, provides treatment without The weekends, held during half-term The course is free and travel expens- 020 8686 9590 SMS: 07902 087 422 an appointment for patients who need breaks and holidays, comprise leader- es will be refunded. Participants are email: [email protected] urgent, but not emergency treatment when their GP practice is closed.’ 6 Professional NEWS hearing times  February 2009 BHSAA Audiologist of year international conference 2009 title launched announced A competition to recognise excep- The judges are looking for inspira- The British Society of Hearing Aid tional service within audiology is being tional stories: has your audiologist Audiologists (BSHAA) has announced launched for its second year following helped out in difficult or unusual cir- details of this year’s International a great response in 2008. cumstances? Have they simply been a Congress. Rayovac’s Audiologist of the Year pillar of support for many years? The annual conference will take 2009 rewards both professionals and Audiologists or dispensers must place at the Harrogate International customers by offering cash prizes to be nominated by patients who have Centre, North Yorkshire, on 5-6 June both. had – or are having – a device fitted 2009, and is open to all audiologists Last year’s winner, Lisa Binns-Smith, between August 2004 and July 2009. and hearing care professionals. told Hearing Times: ‘Being nominated Entries must only be submitted by Delegates can book a place at the for the Audiologist of Year Awards is a patients, who will be asked to state event by contacting The Society’s Sec- fantastic feeling, knowing that some- how their hearing care professional retary on [email protected]. The one has really appreciated the pa- has helped them and why they believe cost will £235.75 including VAT. tience and hard work you’ve put in. they should win the competition. Those who will be attending the ‘It also provides a sense of real Lisa Binns-Smith, last year’s winner, says Those nominating an audiologist also Congress will benefit from special ac- achievement, knowing that you’ve award allows dedication to be recognised stand a chance of winning a cash prize commodation rates at nearby hotels. helped to change someone’s life for and electrical goods. The Society is also interested in the better; even perhaps – as was the dispensers, in the UK, France, Italy, There will also be framed ‘Commen- hearing from audiologists and hear- case with my generous nomination – Sweden, Spain, Germany and Austria. dation Certificates’ for all hearing care ing care professionals, academics, to know you’ve helped someone to From these six country winners, an professionals short-listed. scientists and other professionals who succeed in their own profession. overall European winner will be chosen If the winning hearing care profes- wish to present papers at the 2009 ‘The Audiologist of the Year Awards by the panel, who will receive €5,000 sional has more than one nominee, Congress. are a fantastic event and, with so (£4,500), a trophy and framed certifi- the nominees will go into a lottery, If you have a research paper, thesis many exceptional hearing healthcare cate. The winning hearing care pro- with the first out of the draw receiving or review you wish to present, please professionals in this country, I’m glad fessional will also be invited to collect £225 cash, plus Remington electrical submit an abstract together with your they’ll allow more dedicated and skilled their prize at the 2009 EUHA congress goods to the value of £180. CV and contact details to: audiologists to be recognised publicly in Nuremberg, Germany, taking place To nominate your audiologist, visit The Secretary, BSHAA, for their hard work,’ Lisa added. from 21-23 October. www.audiologistoftheyear.co.uk for 9 Lukins Drive, The competition is open to all hear- Entrants must explain, in their own further details and entry form. Entries Great Dunmow, ing care professionals, including hear- words, why their audiologist deserves are accepted online or by post. The Essex, CM6 1XQ, ing aid audiologists, audiologists and to win the coveted title. closing date for all entries is 31 July. or email [email protected]

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The search is on to find the UK hearing aid Audiologist of the year for 2009 and we want you to tell us why You both win your hearing care professional deserves to win. If your audiologist wins UK Audiologist of the Year Rayovac the manufacturer of the worlds No.1 selling you receive £250 cash, plus £200 of personal hearing aid battery has again joined forces with Audio electrical goods in addition to the fantastic care TM Infos to sponsor this successful competition. you receive. Your audiologist wins a cash prize, trophy, chance to become European Audiologist So tell us your story now by voting on-line or of the Year 2009 and much more. alternatively you can ask at your audiology surgery. Its of the a great way of thanking your hearing care professional Either vote on-line or find out further details for years of dedicated service and support, plus it’s also by visiting the website below. Alternatively a good opportunity to tell your tale to others and give ask at your audiology surgery them the credit they deserve. www.audiologistoftheyear.co.uk February 2009  hearing times news 7

The Melissa Mostyn column A deaf-only climbing Stiletto is sharp attempt holiday for the brave Calling all climbers! A UK company is offering its first deaf-only climbing to bridge both worlds holiday in France this summer with the Watching a private screening of help of British interpreters. Stiletto before Christmas, it was Climb France have teamed up with noticeable how its square target at Communication ID for the week-long mainstream audiences disregarded trip in June for deaf climbers who wish its deaf input. to make the transition from indoor Stiletto (www.stilettofilm.co.uk) is walls to outdoor climbing. a murder mystery thriller, centring Climbing instructor Ollie Ryall, who round a hapless artist (Tom Harper) runs the Climb France holidays in who tries to avert a supposed crisis Provence, told Hearing Times what initiated by a well-groomed sultry made him decide to organise a deaf- blonde (Beth Winslet). A classic only excursion. homage that directly references its ‘Two interpreters from Communica- grant-maker – Apex Arts and Film tion ID came on one of our courses London/Waltham Forest’s Hitch- last year,’ Ollie explained. ‘They know cock Production Fund – it’s a nicely lots of deaf climbers who are keen to crafted short that makes great use start outdoors and together we came of the colour red as a recurring motif up with this plan. alerting us to impending danger. ‘At the moment, there is nothing (Photo: Courtesy of Oliver Ryall) Stiletto’s production team consti- like this being offered, but apparently tuted a deaf director working with lots of deaf climbers.’ to deaf climbers, which doesn’t sur- an entirely hearing cast and crew. The ClimbFrance instructors will prise Ollie at all. This achievement may not necessar- Danger signs: the colour red is a motif work closely with climbing interpret- ‘For the organisers the week will be ily seem that unusual in a popula- of the film warning of impending peril ers from Communication ID to ensure very labour-intensive: we will have tion context. Skillset’s estimate that the essential skills are taught safely, to double the usual staff ratio, so we deaf and disabled people constituted mined to see more openly deaf with the aim of giving deaf climbers won’t make any money from it. I can’t 2.3% of the wider media workforce people in mainstream film roles, set- the confidence and skills to carry on imagine other companies wanting in 2003 should be treated with ting up Mutt & Jeff Pictures for that afterwards. to organise something like this! ‘ he caution: for one film-maker openly purpose: ‘Why do we have to stick to ‘Teaching the skills and techniques explained. declaring his deafness, several may issue-related or medical storylines? for safe outdoor climbing clearly with- The course takes place from 21-27 underplay theirs. Choosing instead to Why can’t we have deaf actors in out talking will certainly be a chal- June and includes all food and accom- work quietly ‘from within’, some may everyday-life stories?’ lenge,’ Ollie admitted. modation at the ClimbFrance base in even dissociate themselves from any Mager doesn’t share Neethling’s ‘Normally, we are able to shout ad- Provence, instruction and specialist whiff of deaf culture whatsoever. passion in quite the same way; he vice to people while they are climbing equipment. would much rather be developing – for this course, it won’t be possible. The cost per person is £655 and Long-lasting bond two discrete strands: ‘Deafness is We will have to work closely with spaces are limited to eight people. Not so William Mager, Stiletto’s direc- always going to be part of me and the interpreters, who are both fairly For further information, contact tor. Shorts like Hope and Betrayal the films I make. decent climbers, and come up with a ClimbFrance by emailing climbfrance@ (both 2002) and collaborations with ‘But I also have strong mainstream whole new strategy.’ gmail.com or Communication ID by Jonathan Reid (2003’s Text, Batteries ambitions in the long term, and At the moment, there aren’t any emailing enquiries@communicationid. and Earwax and its 2007 sequel, The some of the stories I want to tell are other holidays like this being offered co.uk Association) and Remark! (Reservoir rooted in other aspects of my life, Wolves, 2001) indicate a long-lasting such as Sheffield, where I grew up, bond with the deaf community that and East London, where I live now.’ he clearly values. Mager has, of course, worked on Dual identity Take part in studies on The Culture Show, Crimewatch and This is rather like attending a partial- Waking The Dead as well as BBC ly hearing unit within a mainstream TV’s See Hear. This edge over many school, spending half the time with of his deaf competitors is what gives deaf schoolchildren, half with hear- BSL and deaf identities Stiletto its polish, making it arguably ing. A ‘dual identity’ then emerges the most high-profile of his three where you conform by presenting If you use British Sign Language on a communities are trying to ensure that ‘hearing’ shorts so far - which made two contrasting faces to each world. regular basis, then a PhD student from their language will flourish,’ Catherine its inclusion in the 2008 Deaffest Being only half-true to yourself Middlesex University could use your told Hearing Times. programme all the more odd, given most of the time, however, risks help! Catherine hopes to spend the rest of how it stood apart from all losing you both audiences Catherine Carlton is carrying out this year collecting data, and spend a those cosy deaf films. eventually. Why shouldn’t research into deaf identities and the further year analyzing and writing up Talking to the director Mager look into incorporat- role of BSL and is looking for deaf/ her findings. recently, he took pains to ing this duality into one, hard of hearing people living in the UK ‘I hope that this research will focus stress the need to prove singular, theme? Revelations to answer a few questions in a short attention on the importance that BSL his mainstream capabilities, of an interest in European questionnaire. holds for the people who use that worrying that placing a deaf arthouse recently may ‘I was motivated to learn more about language as their primary means of character in Stiletto might appear to contradict his the deaf community through a chance communication.’ Catherine said. imply ‘a ‘comfort zone’ of avowed fervour for going meeting with a deaf woman who is ‘Language is more than a method of working with deaf actors, ‘mainstream’, yet could now a very close friend of mine,’ exp­ communication: it is a key aspect of which would perhaps limit provide new inspiration for lains Catherine. many people’s identity. This is as true my opportunities.’ quirkier film-making tactics. ‘I was lucky enough to receive fund- of the deaf community as any other. Breakthroughs for deaf filmmak- Let’s not forget all those main- ing from Middlesex University to ex- ‘I hope to gain a deeper under- ers are certainly rare. Interviewed stream films that have been derided plore the role that communicating with standing of the UK deaf populations by The Times in South Africa re- for being too afraid to be unconven- British Sign Language plays in shaping views on BSL and identity, which will cently, Louis Neethling highlighted tional in their portrayals of disability: the sense of belonging that people facilitate better access to services and the difficulties of ‘transcending being Rainman, Forrest Gump, guilty all. have within Deaf communities. representations of the deaf community labelled’. He said: ‘Making films By placing his multiculturalism in a ‘There is very little research in the through dissemination of the research about deafness isn’t very glamorous mainstream context, William Mager UK that has carefully explored deaf findings. and therefore a very small budget is could be setting himself the chal- people’s views on BSL, and how they ‘Without the help and support of the given when you work in these fields. lenge of his entire career: entertain- see its status in comparison with Deaf community, this research would So you learn to get the most out of ing both audiences to the full. English. not be possible,’ she added. very little.’ My research will look at the relation- If you would like more information Neethling is nonetheless deter- Melissa Mostyn ship between deaf identities in the UK about the research, please email and use of BSL and also at how deaf Catherine at [email protected]. 8 features hearing times  february 2009 february 2009  hearing times features 9 Mum taken Where should they by surprise Climb aboard the listening bus spend the money at toddler’s Sessions on travelling lab packed with all the latest technology can be booked by you hearing loss By Gemma Davidson the bus learned a great deal, and also on deaf research? got publicity about the wonderful work A leading charity is calling for young A mum has told of her surprise after A national children’s charity has an- of the NDCS. From our point of view it deaf people to decide where deafness discovering the extent of her child’s nounced plans for an extensive tour was a tremendous success.’ research should go in the future. hearing loss due to glue ear, and is of Britain raising awareness of hearing Murdo Fraser, a member of the Deafness Research UK has an- now urging parents to find out more loss amongst youngsters and adults Scottish Parliament, visited the nounced a national competition for about the condition before it’s too late. alike. bus and was impressed by the young people to put forward their Lucy Burns was shocked when her The National Deaf Children’s Society amount of technology on offer. ‘I ideas as to where research into deaf- baby daughter experienced glue ear (NDCS) is sending out its purpose- was delighted to have the opportunity ness should head over the next 20 and some hearing loss, and thinks built Listening Bus to travel the length to look around and see some of the years. parents need to be better informed and breadth of the country to deliver equipment made available to make the Organised in association with the so they can spot the signs earlier and the charity’s unique information ser- lives of deaf children a little easier. I Deafness Cognition and Language seek appropriate treatment. vice to the doorstep of the nation’s am very keen to do what I can to sup- (DCAL) Research Centre, the ‘It’s my When baby Ciara underwent hearing deaf children, deaf adults, families, port NDCS.’ future’ competition is open to entries tests at the age of 14 months, she was friends and professionals. The Listening Bus has a profound from two age groups: 12 to 14-year- found to have glue ear. Having Down’s Since its launch in 1996, the bus has effect on classmates of deaf children olds and 15 to 19-year-olds. The syndrome meant she was more at played host to over 56,000 people and when it visits schools. Sarah Gabe, competition organisers are looking risk, but Ciara’s mum Lucy hadn’t sus- notched up over 160,000 miles on the whose son James is deaf, praised the for original ideas and seeking young pected there was a problem. clock visiting hundreds of locations, bus when it visited James’s school. people’s opinions on topics such as Lucy, from Cheshire, said: ‘Ciara did including schools for the deaf, hearing- ‘I think the visit was very successful, whether doctors in 2019 will be able have a number of head colds as a baby impaired units, audiology centres and and it will build James’s confidence to grow replacement parts for ears, and also experienced a couple of ear special events along with its specially and help his classmates to understand whether there will be new or different infections prior to being diagnosed with trained roadshow crew to offer advice a little bit more about what it is like to ways to communicate in BSL (Brit- glue ear, but these were only mild. and assistance. be deaf.’ ish Sign Language) and the future of ‘When I saw Ciara grabbing her ear Louise Cox, roadshow co-ordinator, Louise is now looking forward to her cochlear implants. ‘Young deaf people and seeming a bit grumpy, I took her has been with the service for two third outing with the bus and is urging Deafness Research UK is the coun- along to the doctor’s and she was years and told Hearing Times that she everyone to come along and get try’s medical charity for deaf and hard are rarely consulted quickly treated with antibiotics. As I has thoroughly enjoyed her time with involved. ‘Access to the bus is wheel- of hearing people. Vivienne Michael, know children with Down’s syndrome the bus. chair- and pushchair-friendly, and we chief executive of Deafness Research about where they are more susceptible to ear infections, ‘I have travelled all over the coun- use British Sign Language and Sign UK, said: ‘Young deaf people are rarely I did look out for them and doctors try on the Listening Bus and have lost Supported English. We have also got a consulted about where they think think deafness-related checked her ears regularly. count of the number of stops we have sound field system on board. So come deafness related research should be research should be ‘When Ciara had hearing tests which made! I think I have one of the most along and spend the day with us: we’d focused in the future and what they showed there was some hearing loss, interesting and varied jobs available love to see you.’ want from it. focused in the future I was surprised. At that time, she as I get to meet so many deaf children Testing time: visitors to the Listening Bus can try out all the latest equipment designed to assist in communication and learning If you would like further information seemed to be responding well to dif- and see for myself what a difference about the Listening Bus, contact the Annual event and what they want ferent things, enjoying singing and the right technology can make. The bus features examples of all the • Personal paging systems; The Bus now has live internet access NDCS Freephone Helpline at helpline@ ‘We hope that the competition will playing musical instruments. She explained: ‘It’s great to be able latest equipment designed to assist • Listening and radio aids; so that you can check out all the best ndcs.org.uk become an annual event giving young from it’ ‘Also, one of the tests relied on Ciara to give deaf children a chance to have in communication and learning and • Loop systems; websites on childhood deafness and If you would like to book the Listen- deaf people a unique opportunity to responding to sounds made by the a “real” telephone conversation with visitors can try all the equipment for • Subtitled and signed films; it even has a small toy corner to keep ing Bus, you will need to: tell us what they think. Vivienne Michael health visitor, and I felt she didn’t do their friends and family on the bus. themselves. They can also gather a • Deaf-friendly computer software. younger visitors amused. • Check when the bus is near you ‘Because Deafness Research UK has well because she did not want to play.’ Often they have never tried a spec­ wide range of leaflets on technology 2009 is the fifth year of the bigger, Jo Hobbs, tutor for deaf stu- • Check that your venue is suitable access to some of the best deafness It wasn’t until later on that Lucy ialised phone with the volume boost and other NDCS services. The bus also improved bus, which was launched dents, said that the Listening Bus • Download a booking form from research scientists in the world and hearing impaired myself, I am only realised that something was seriously or the “T” switch facility before. It’s helps raise public awareness of child- in 2004 through the support of HBOS was hugely popular when it visited the NDCS website (tinyurl.com/ are actively looking for funding into too aware of how progress in scientific wrong with her daughter’s hearing. wonderful to see their faces light up hood deafness. plc, Garfield Weston Foundation, PF her school. ‘Everybody who visited an6mbs). key deafness related areas, there is research has the potential to improve ‘She was in her playroom and as I and to hear them chatting and listen- The Listening Bus carries examples Charitable Trust and Tubney Charitable a real chance that some of the ideas the life of someone who is hearing approached from the hallway, I called ing with ease. of the following equipment: Trust. It has a much larger display suggested by the young deaf commu- impaired. her name. Normally, she would have ‘The Listening Bus is very big, and • Telephones and mobile phones; area for visitors to look at all the lat- Where is the listening bus going next? nity will become a reality and in the rushed over to greet me as I got to lots of children we meet are always in- • Textphones and videophones; est equipment and also a quiet room long-term will have a direct and posi- Raise awareness the door, but this time she only no- terested to know where we sleep and • Alarm clocks; where families can chat with NDCS tive effect for deaf people,’ Vivienne ‘I think this competition is a great ticed when I clapped my hands.’ often ask if we have bunk beds on the • Smoke detectors; staff and other professionals in pri- added. way to raise awareness in general and A hearing aid was provided, but bus!’ she added. • Door and telephone alerts; vate. DCAL is based at University College understand what deaf young people she found it difficult to tolerate. As a London and funded by ESRC. Professor want from future hearing research,’ result, Ciara’s specialist recommended Scotland Gary Morgan of DCAL said: ‘Research- she added. 18 Aug – 20 Sep 2009 grommets, fitted in September 2008. ers at DCAL are excited that the “It’s The first prize in each group is £100, After the operation, Lucy noticed an my future” competition will be running with runners up prizes of £50. This instant improvement in Ciara’s hear- again in 2009 and that this year Deaf- year the competition is also open to ing, and hearing tests also confirmed North East ness Research UK is taking the lead in young hearing people with deaf fam- Northern Ireland 22 Sep – 4 Oct 2009 this. Lucy also says there has been 6 – 28 June 2009 this collaboration after the success in ily or friends. The prize is £50 for the an improvement in Ciara’s speech and 2008. best entry in each age group. language development, as she has be- Yorkshire and Humberside ‘As a judge, I look forward to read- Prizes will be awarded at a ceremony gun to copy more of what she hears. 6 – 25 Oct 2009 ing the 2009 entries which I’m sure at the House of Commons during Deaf Even though she knew of glue ear in will have the same high standard of Awareness Week, on 5 May hosted by Down’s children, Lucy was surprised East Midlands invention and imagination as those we Malcolm Bruce MP, chair of the All-Par- 27 Oct – 15 Nov 2009 that it can be difficult to spot. ‘A hear- received last year.’ ty Parliamentary Group on Deafness. ing loss can be quite subtle and there Young people who want to take part Mr Bruce said: ‘I’m delighted once North West may be no other noticeable­ signs. Eastern England need to write a short piece (up to 300 again to be on the panel of judges for 1 – 31 July 2009 ‘My experience has taught me that you 17 Nov – 6 Dec 2009 words or one minute of video in BSL) “It’s my future”. Last year’s competi- can never have enough information. I on what researchers should do to im- tion was a great success and it is very West Midlands was on the look-out for ear problems 17 Feb - 1 March 2009 prove life for deaf people by 2019 or important to continue finding out what and still missed the initial signs; I am 2 – 28 Feb 2010 London even 2029. young deaf people think about the 8 – 18 Dec 2009 sure with better information that I 4 Jan – 1 Feb 2010 The competition will be judged by a future of research that directly affects would have picked it up quicker,’ she panel of deaf and hearing experts in them. said. Wales deafness and hearing research. One ‘Their input will help to guide the - Deafness Research UK has published 3 - 29 March 2009 South east of the judges, Dr Lisa Nolan of the direction of this research.’ 1 – 28 March 2010 a leaflet ‘Ear Infections and Glue Ear 5 May – 3 June 2009 UCL Ear Institute, said: ‘I’m honoured Entries are via the website at www. in Children’, which is available at GP to be a judge for the “It’s my future” itsmyfuture.info. Winning entries will surgeries, and can be obtained from South west competition. Working as a scientist in be published on the website. The 1 April – 3 May 2009 the charity by calling 0808 808 2222. Powerful resource: the Listening Bus has a profound effect on classmates of deaf children when it visits schools the hearing research field and being deadline for entries is Friday 6 March.

This schedule is subject to change 10 theatre hearing times  February 2009

West Side Story: New York gangland forms the setting for the musical retelling of the classic Shakespeare play Romeo and Juliet heatre, Southampton heatre, T he Mayflower he Mayflower T Photo: courtesyPhoto: of

Potent re-awakening of a very old love story

By Chris Attewell-Hughes Laurents, this blindingly bright musi- Our Puerto Rican Juliet, Maria, is a leading male romance character. cal could be deemed the most potent played by Sofia Escobar, who brings an It’s not until Anita (Jayde Westaby) The 50th anniversary commemora- show to ever see the stage. ethereal innocence to her character. is gang-raped closer to the finale that tive production of West Side Story is a By replacing the feuding families Delicate and willowy, Escobar’s rendi- it hits home that, whilst it is a touch- testament to the sheer tenacity of the with a white American gang and a tion of ‘I feel pretty’ fills you with a ing remake of Romeo and Juliet, West original that took Broadway by storm. Puerto Rican gang, the aforemen- childlike delight that makes the ending Side Story is also a production that Without hesitation, it lives up to ex- tioned trio of contributors added the come all too soon. highlights the racism that is present pectations that it undoubtedly arose flavour that Shakespeare left out. However, Tony, played by Daniel even today in society. It’s a reminder when the run was announced. Partnered with Jerome Robbins’ chore- Koek, is plain at best. To an onlooker that, even 50 years on, we still have a Set in Manhattan during the mid- ography, this rebirth of a classic brings watching West Side Story for the first long way to go… 1950s, West Side Story has taken some much needed joy during our time, there’s a long gap before it be- • The 50th anniversary production Shakespeare’s classic Romeo and economic downturn. comes evident that he’s a lead charac- of West Side Story, captioned by Juliet and shaken it until it rattled. While the gangs leap about like ter. Fortunately, he’s been blessed with Stagetext, is on tour in January and Thanks to music by Leonard Bern- elegant, rutting stags in early autumn, an extremely powerful voice so he can February. Go to the website www. stein, lyrics by Stephen Soundheim the Puerto Rican chicas flap about with be forgiven for not being the heart- westsidestorytheshow.co.uk for in- and an accompanying book by Arthur their vibrant plumes for all to see. throb we come to expect from formation about dates and venues

Sporting an eye patch and a pros- that she is only too well aware of Valkyrie thetic arm, Cruise portrays Stauffen- the consequences of failure for them

Cert 12A, Features ex berg as arrogant yet a caring family all. There is a rather moving scene, man, driven yet compassionate. He handled well, between Stauffenberg Film on general release has a fine supporting cast of leading and his wife when he sends them out Consult local cinema for details British actors as his co-conspirators: of the city knowing they might not see on subtitled screenings the dependable Bill Nighy; Tom Wilkin- each other again.

Photo: courtesyPhoto: of R son as the duplicitous General Frohm Although the audience knows the The latest vehicle for Tom Cruise is a who switches sides; a character part story ends in tragedy, the telling of well-made and exciting thriller set in for comedian Eddie Izzard as the staff the tale as to what went wrong with the last months of the Second World officer inside Hitler’s command HQ; mishaps, mistakes and near-misses is War. It tells the story of the July 1944 the hard-working and multi-talented compelling and the courage of those plot against Hitler’s life by a group of Kenneth Branagh as the original leader involved inspiring. German Army officers led by Colonel of the plotters who makes a failed The threads of honour and decency Claus von Stauffenberg. attempt on the Fuhrer’s life at the be- and conflicts of conscience are well Stauffenberg was an aristocratic ginning of the film and ends up being handled amidst the frenetic pace that scion of the German officer class, posted to the Eastern Front; a strong builds through the movie. At one a decorated war hero, who became performance by 1960s heart-throb point, one of the generals declares convinced that the only way to secure Terence Stamp as the old general that, even if they fail, it will show that Germany’s future and save the father­ lending moral support to the opera- not all Germans went along with the land from the continuing madness of tion and a study in fear from politician Nazis to the bitter end and some had the Nazi regime was to stage a coup Kevin Mcnally. the courage to resist. and to sue for peace with the Allies. Valkyrie tells the true story of a 1944 plot The audacious plan to plant a bomb Many of the best films, plays and This project was astoundingly dif- to assassinate Nazi leader Adolf Hitler under the table in Hitler’s map room books dealing with the wartime period ficult for practical and psychologi- of his command bunker has been the confront the viewer with the uncom- cal reasons – Hitler was the German mats who formed the disparate Ger- most celebrated of the numerous plots fortable but necessary question – con- Army’s Commanding Officer and, on man ‘resistance’ to the Nazi regime. on his life that took place in those last, templated from the safety of our mod- becoming Chancellor in 1933, had The plot is hatched to plant a bomb increasingly desperate days of the ern lives in peace and security – of made the German armed forces swear in Hitler’s army HQ and run Operation Third Reich. what we might have done or not done a personal oath of allegiance to him. Valkryie designed to topple the Nazi The film is an exciting thriller which in circumstances depicted on screen, Stauffenberg is invalided out of the government. Although Tom Cruise is maintains pace and plot whilst giving stage or page. As we salute the brav- fighting in the Western Desert and is hardly the epitome of what may be due attention to character and moti- ery of Stauffenberg and his comrades, posted back to Berlin as a staff offi- imagined as the Prussian officer of the vation. Stauffenberg is worried about and all those prepared to confront evil, cer where he falls in with the various old school, he carries off the part with the safety of his wife and family and it is a thought to be pondered still. groups of civilians, soldiers and diplo- dash and style. there is a scene in which she signals William BR Jeremy Hearing Times Issue 3 January 2009

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Hearing Times 11 ACROSS 12 DOWN Issue 3 January 2009 13 1 A small plug or peg 2 Pattern named after a Scottish town 14 7 Lacking self-control 3 Quantity of bread 1 2 3 4 15 9 Transport of goods in bulk by lorry, train, ship or 4 Wild, Australian dog

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17 18 11 Actively enthusiastic pin and catch 7 8 13 Language spoken in northern parts of the 6 The point in the sky directly overhead 19 20 21 Netherlands and adjacent islands 8 Refusing to change one's ideas, behavior, etc.; 9 22 23 15 The front part of someone's hair stubborn; obstinate. 10 24 25 19 Route planner 10 A game involving hooked sticks and a hard ball 22 A song or poem in priase of God 12 Honesty in giving one's view or opinion 11 12 24 Similar in nature or type 14 Seventh planet from the sun 26 27 13 25 Not part of the basic nature of something 16 A small, round bright or dark red fruit with a 26 Very attractive, noticeable stone 14 27 To convert rubbish into a reusable form 17 Behind the stage at the theatre 28 A short novel 18 Type of petroleum jelly used an an ointment and 15 28 29 29 Casino game whereby a ball is dropped onto a lubricant 16 www.CrosswordWeaver.com revolving wheel with numbered compartments 20 Small currant cake with a hard, rough surface 21 A thin high heel on a woman's shoe 17 18 ACROSS DOWN 22 Winnie the ... 19 1 A small plug or peg 20 21 2 Pattern named after a Scottish town 23 Decorative art style characterised by geometric 7 Lacking self-control 3 Quantity of bread shapes 22 23 9 Transport of goods in bulk by lorry, train, ship or 4 Wild, Australian dog aircraft 5 An ornament fastened to clothing with a hinged 24 25 11 Actively enthusiastic pin and catch 13 Language spoken in northern parts of the 6 The point in the sky directly overhead Netherlands and adjacent islands 8 Refusing to change one's ideas, behavior, etc.; 26 15 The front 27 part of someone's hair stubborn; obstinate. 19 Route planner 10 A game involving hooked sticks and a hard ball 22 A song or poem in priase of God 12 Honesty in giving one's view or opinion 24 Similar in nature or type 14 Seventh planet from the sun 25 Not part of the basic nature of something 16 A small, round bright or dark red fruit with a 26 Very attractive, noticeable stone 28 29 27 To convert rubbish into a reusable form 17 Behind the stage at the theatre as www.CrosswordWeaver.com 28 A short novel 18 Type of petroleum jelly used an an ointment and 29 Casino game whereby a ball is dropped onto a lubricant revolving wheel with numbered compartments 20 Small currant cake with a hard, rough surface ACROSS DOWN 21 A thin high heel on a woman's shoe 22 Winnie the ... 1 A small plug or peg 2 Pattern named after a Scottish town 23 Decorative art style characterised by geometric 7 Lacking self-control 3 Quantity of bread shapes 9 Transport of goods in bulk by lorry, train, ship or 4 Wild, Australian dog aircraft The aim of5 theseAn ornament fun puzzles fastened is to fill to clothingin the missingwith a hingedboxes so that each vertical and horizontal column 11 Actively enthusiastic contains the pin numbers and catch 1 to 9. Furthermore, each sub-grid of nine boxes must also contain the numbers 13 Language spokenSudoku in northern parts of the 1 to 9. Sudoku 6 The is point now inrecognised the sky directly by experts overhead to be the perfect mental workout to keep the mind fit and Netherlands and adjacent islands active and 8 staveRefusing off theto change effects one's of age-related ideas, behavior, degeneration. etc.; 15 The front part of someone's hair stubborn; obstinate. 19 Route planner Hard 10 A game involving hooked sticksEasy and a hard ball 22 A song or poem in priase of God 12 Honesty in giving one's view or opinion 24 Similar in nature or type 14 Seventh planet from the sun 25 Not part of the basic nature of something 16 A small, round bright or dark red fruit with a 26 Very attractive, noticeable stone 27 To convert rubbish into a reusable form 17 Behind the stage at the theatre 28 A short novel 18 Type of petroleum jelly used an an ointment and 29 Casino game whereby a ball is dropped onto a lubricant revolving wheel with numbered compartments 20 Small currant cake with a hard, rough surface 21 A thin high heel on a woman's shoe 22 Winnie the ... 23 Decorative art style characterised by geometric shapes February 2009  hearing times people 13

‘I really don’t know what I would do without Sidney now. I know I’m safe when I’m with him. Words cannot Hearing Dog describe how much Sidney has changed my life.’ of the Month Emma Seed Former stray Sidney is a hit at Emma’s workplace

A former stray dog that has been brought Emma companionship and trained to alert his deaf owner to confidence. sounds in the home has been named Emma recalls what life was like be- as Hearing Dog of the Month. fore Sidney: ‘The house was quiet as Tiny Jack Russell terrier Sidney was I couldn’t hear anything, and I would once a stray wandering the streets of have to sleep with a vibrating alarm Hampshire. When he was four months clock under my pillow. Invariably, I old, he was taken to Southampton City was late for work, as it had fallen out. Council’s stray dog kennels, where the ‘I also had lots of ear infections manager saw his potential and con- through having to wear my hearing tacted Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. aids 24 hours a day, as I was scared His cute and engaging ways meant he I wouldn’t hear the smoke alarm at was selected for training, and in March night. If I knew someone was com- best night’s sleep I’d had for years. needs a Sidney. After saying hello to 2007 he eventually went to live with ing to visit, I would have to sit in the He always tells me if someone is at everyone, he lies in his bed and every profoundly deaf Emma Seed in Pres- kitchen so I would hear the door bell the door or the phone is ringing. I also week he’ll jump and alert me to the ton, Lancashire. ringing. I had to sit near the phone have great confidence he would wake fire alarm that is practised. We have Sidney has been trained to alert if I knew someone was going to call. me if the smoke alarm went off too.’ also had a real fire alarm that he alert- Emma, 29, to many household sounds If I wasn’t near, I’d miss them,’ she Sidney’s charm and personality have ed me to straight away. which she cannot hear including the explains. weaved their magic on Emma’s work ‘I was recently told that my hearing doorbell, phone, alarm clock and All of that changed with the arrival colleagues at the Forensic Science has deteriorated again, but I looked smoke alarm; all of which has pro- of Sidney. ‘From the first day I had Service. ‘Everyone loves Sidney at at Sidney lying at my feet and it didn’t vided her with a great deal of security. him, I took my hearing aids out in bed work,’ says Emma proudly. ‘My man- worry me because I’ve got Sidney by In addition to this, Sidney has also and let him wake me up. It was the ager has said that every department my side all day, every day. My quest to ask the world: ‘Are you listening?’ By Jane Atkinson I wrote hundreds of letters, most was through the award that I learned I am regularly asked to give talks weren’t answered and the ones that to chair meetings, apply for funding, about my experiences and the strug- I lost my hearing 12 years ago at the were said ‘Sorry, but no’. It was two bookkeeping and everything I needed gles we have had to keep our organi- age of 48, and nothing could have pre- months later that we got our first to keep the group going. I was for- sation going. But there came a time pared me for the changes it made to break of £300 from the Northern Rock tunate enough to have one-to-one when I thought ’what’s the point? Are my life and the lives of my family. foundation for lip-reading classes and support throughout this training, but I they listening? Are they giving me I went through all of the ‘usual’ we were on our way. missed out on the social activities and a pat on the back, going home and emotions: denial; anger; guilt and networking forgetting?’ It’s not a pat on the back I frustration. For a year I was in an Life after deaf How we have grown since then! We was looking for but changes in atti- abyss, I can’t remember much about I was then lucky enough to be sent to started off as East Durham Deafened tudes and understanding it at all. a LINK rehabilitation week in East- and Hearing Impaired Support with For the next event I decided to write There was no help available at the bourne. It was here that I learned just five people. We are now Durham a short play and got two people to act time: not even a lip-reading class. The there really was a life after deaf. The Deafened Support with seven lip- it out. They read from the script, with social services tried loops, amplified late Heather Jackson spoke about her reading support groups throughout the an interpreter in the middle and Pal- phones etc., but nothing worked. They hearing loss and how she had man- county, which meet weekly. We em- antype (speech to text) at the side. It were apologetic but could do nothing aged to overcome all obstacles to help ploy four lip-reading teachers, who are was only 15 minutes long but took 45, to help me. create a better quality of life for all all registered through the Association as there were so many of our mem- But one day a new social worker deafened people. She was an inspi- of Lip-reading Teachers to Adults. bers becoming emotional and couldn’t came to see me after being con- ration to me. I came home ready to We work in partnership with our pri- read the Palantype. ‘That’s me’, ‘I tacted by my daughter. She had met change the world. mary care trust, Age Concern, Durham didn’t understand’, ‘I feel so guilty others who had fallen through the Shortly after that, I was awarded a County Council and numerous others now’ were all comments we received. cracks in the system – people like me Millennium Award from the Durham to create equal access for all hard of Social workers and people from who couldn’t cope in a hard of hear- County Foundation Coalfields Trust. It hearing and deafened people. other services asked if I was getting ing club where members got full use it made into a DVD, which I did, four from their hearing aids and amplified years later. The DVD Are you listen- phones. They couldn’t understand ing? was first shown on the 10th Anni- why I couldn’t put hearing aids in and versary of Durham Deafened Support hear as they did. I didn’t belong in the becoming a registered charity. deaf club where deaf people had been Ross Trotter, chairman of the Na- brought up with a language and cul- tional Association of Deafened People ture that they understood. Here I was (NADP), wrote: ‘The script is brilliantly a hearing person with no hearing realistic and gives an authentic insight The social worker introduced me to into how losing your hearing leads to four other people and paid for lip read- a loss of confidence and how it af- ing classes for 20 weeks. It was the fects not only the deafened person but only place I felt comfortable, as we also those around them. The range of all desperately needed somewhere to problems covered in the first half is belong. But the 20 weeks were soon astonishing.’ over. It was then, with the encourage- To get a copy of the DVD, contact us ment from the social worker, that I at Durham Deafened support by phon- decided to try for funding to support ing 0191 5183358 or visit our website our small group. Clever act: Jane Atkinson (centre) with Les Maughn and John Lodge www.ddsupport.org.uk. February 2009  hearing times theatRE 11

Airport Pantomime Society) (Pantomime) 14 February 2009 Hawth Theatre (Crawley) BSL interpreted 14.30 Where There’s a Will (Drama) Rose 19:30 Cabaret (Musical) Plymouth Theatre Theatre (Kingston) Captioned by Stagetext Royal Captioned in-house 16:00 True Love Lies (Play) Royal Ex- ‘What’s on’ guide change Theatre Manchester BSL interpreted 8 February 2009 14:30 Mother Goose (Gatwick Airport 16 February 2009 Provided by Signed Performance in Theatre Pantomime Society) (Pantomime) Hawth 19.30 West Side Story (Musical) Theatre Theatre (Crawley) BSL interpreted Royal (Newcastle-Upon-Tyne) Captioned (SPIT) www.spit.co.uk in-house 9 February 2009 19:30 Be Near Me (Play) Donmar Ware- 20 January 2009 4 February 2009 10:30 and 13.30 Baa Moo Yellow Dog house (London) BSL interpreted 13:30 Aladdin (Pantomime) New Theatre 13:30 Baa Moo Yellow Dog (Children’s) (Children’s) Half Moon Young People’s 19:30 Gethsemane (Play) National Theatre Cardiff BSL interpreted Half Moon Young People’s Theatre (Lon- Theatre (London) (NT) (London) Captioned by Stagetext don) Integrated performance Integrated performance 20 January 2009 14.30 Mary Poppins (Musical) Manchester 10 February 2009 18 February 2009 19:00 Cinderella (Pantomime) Plymouth Palace Theatre Captioned by Stagetext 10:30 and 13.30 Baa Moo Yellow Dog 19.30 Othello (Play) Northern Stage (New- Theatre Royal Captioned in-house 18:00 Mother Goose (Gatwick Airport (Children’s) Half Moon Young People’s castle upon Tyne) Captioned by the Royal Pantomime Society) (Pantomime) Hawth Theatre (London) Integrated performance Shakespeare Company 23 January 2009 Theatre (Crawley) BSL interpreted 19:30 A Voyage Round My Father (Play) 19.30 Complicit (Drama) The Old Vic The- 19.30 Wicked (Musical) Apollo Victoria 19:30 Twelfth Night (Play) Donmar New Vic, Newcastle under Lyme, atre (London) Captioned in-house Theatre (London) Captioned by Stagetext Warehouse at Wyndham’s Theatre (London) Captioned in-house 19:30 The Winslow Boy (Play) Salisbury Captioned by Stagetext Playhouse BSL interpreted 24 January 2009 11 February 2009 13.00 A Midsummer Night’s Dream 5 February 2009 10:30 and 13.30 Baa Moo Yellow Dog (Play) Novello Theatre (London) Captioned 13.30 and 19:00 Baa Moo Yellow Dog (Children’s) Half Moon Young People’s by the Royal Shakespeare Company (Children’s) Half Moon Young People’s Theatre (London) Integrated performance 14.30 Cabaret (Musical) Lyceum Theatre Theatre (London) Integrated performance 19:15 Skin Deep (Opera) Opera North at Poetry Corner (Sheffield) Captioned by Stagetext 19:00 Mother Goose (Gatwick Airport Grand Theatre Leeds BSL interpreted 14.30 Wicked (Musical) Apollo Victoria Pantomime Society) (Pantomime) Hawth 19:30 Othello (Play) Hackney Empire Theatre (London) Captioned by Stagetext Theatre (Crawley) BSL interpreted Captioned by the Royal Shakespeare Co. What did exams ever do for us? 15:00 Roaring Trade (Play) Soho Theatre 19:30 Tons of Money (Play) Edinburgh 19:30 Tamerlano (Opera) Opera by Defini- I sit, with pen in hand (London) BSL interpreted King’s Theatre Captioned in-house tion at The Opera House, Tunbridge Wells Poised, ready, as the word 19:30 Roaring Trade (Play) Soho Theatre BSL interpreted Comes from invigilator 25 January 2009 (London) Captioned in-house 20:00 How the Other Half Loves (Com- To begin the ordeal by intoning 12:00 The Singing Kettle - Musical 19:30 Lloyd George Knew My Father edy) Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch (London) The time-honoured phraseology Toyshop (Children’s) Edinburgh Festival (Play) Marlowe Theatre (Canterbury) BSL 12 February 2009 Bound up with moments such as these Theatre BSL interpreted interpreted 19.30 The Lion King (Musical) Lyceum ‘You can start now.’ Theatre (London) Captioned by Stagetext 28 January 2009 6 February 2009 19:30 Absolutely Frank (Comedy) Old- The turn of the paper heralds Either blank moment 20:00 Sir Gawain and the Green Knight 19:30 Tons of Money (Play) Edinburgh ham Coliseum Theatre BSL interpreted Or temporary terror (Play) Lakeside Arts Centre (Nottingham) King’s Theatre BSL interpreted 19:30 Blood Brothers (Musical) Edinburgh Relief may follow further reading BSL interpreted 19:30 Mother Goose (Gatwick Airport Festival Theatre BSL interpreted Or resignation that little Pantomime Society) (Pantomime) Hawth 19:45 The Hounding of David Oluwale Will transfer from head to page. 29 January 2009 Theatre (Crawley) BSL interpreted (Play) West Yorkshire Playhouse (Leeds) 14.30 Boeing Boeing (Comedy) Lyceum 20:30 Flashdance The Musical (Musical) BSL interpreted In these long years of Theatre (Sheffield) Captioned by Stagetext Birmingham Hippodrome BSL interpreted Examinational endeavour 13 February 2009 Some things change 31 January 2009 7 February 2009 10:30 and 13.30 Baa Moo Yellow Dog Others have not, 14.00 West Side Story (Musical) The May- 11:00 and 14.00 Baa Moo Yellow Dog (Children’s) Half Moon Young People’s Since first embarking on These exercises in brain pressure flower Theatre (Southampton) Captioned by (Children’s) Half Moon Young People’s Theatre (London) Integrated performance Cocooned from the world outside Stagetext Theatre (London) Integrated performance 19.30 An Inspector Calls (Play) Birming- Divorced from reality for hours at a time 14.00 Othello (Play) Warwick Arts Centre ham Repertory Theatre Captioned in-house With desk, clock and sweaty palm 3 February 2009 (Coventry) Captioned by the Royal Shake- 19:30 Blood Brothers (Musical) Edinburgh The universe entire. 19.30 Mary Poppins (Musical) Manchester speare Company Festival Theatre Captioned in-house Palace Theatre Captioned by Stagetext 14:30 and 19.30 Mother Goose (Gatwick At one time the test of choice Was one of memory And fact retention Just the pen and the head Allowed into the hallowed hall National Theatre celebrates a thousand Now, the practice is one of Supporting papers, works of reference – The term of art is captioned performances with Stagetext ‘Permitted Materials.’ In December, STAGETEXT captioned extend my thanks to colleagues who Theatre This all to reassure its 1,000th performance at the Na- support the delivery of these perfor- 7 March: The Pitmen Painters, Lyt- Beleagured test-taker tional Theatre. The play to make this mances with commitment and enthu- telton Theatre That these feats significant landmark was David Hare’s siasm. Here’s to the next 1,000!’ she 14 March: War Horse, Olivier Theatre Of endurance are Gethsemane, which is about to go on added. 7 April: Burnt by the Sun, Lyttelton More user-friendly tour across the UK. Tabitha Allum, STAGETEXT chief ex- Theatre – Assessment rather than exam Ros Hayes, head of access at the ecutive, said: ‘STAGETEXT is delighted 15 April: England People Very Nice, It does not seem that way National Theatre offered her hearty to have celebrated its 1,000th cap- Olivier Theatre To this assessment taker, congratulations to STAGETEXT on their tioned performance and should like to 5 May: Dido, Queen of Carthage, And veteran of tests 1,000th captioned performance here thank all the theatres that have helped Cottesloe Theatre That once described at the NT – and thanked in particular us to bring so many wonderful produc- Coming up soon on tour in your Themselves quite modestly Anna Castle and colleagues, Roz Chal- tions to a whole new audience of deaf, region: As ‘Ordinary Levels’. mers and Peter Taplin. deafened and hard of hearing people. 6 March: Gethsemane, Windsor The- Ros said: ‘Last year, STAGETEXT ‘As well as our own captioned per- atre Royal The race against time supported 27 captioned performances formances, many theatres across the 12 March: Gethsemane, Newcastle Is hallmark of this type Of pen-based prize-fighting at the National, with additional pro- UK now provide the service in-house, Theatre Royal The world turns, the hours progress ductions in the West End and on tour. so we can look forward to even more 18 March: Gethsemane, Cambridge The invigilator ends his song The resoundingly positive feedback captioned shows in the coming year.’ Arts Theatre With familiar cry of we receive from deaf and hearing 4 April: Gethsemane, Brighton ‘Stop writing; time’s up.’ impaired audience-members confirms Coming up soon at the National: Theatre Royal what a huge difference their work 16 February: Gethsemane, Cottesloe That particular lyric never changes makes. Theatre National Theatre Box Office: Phone: In the three hours ‘Last year, the NT issued 15,000 23 February: Every Good Boy Des­ 020 7452 3000 Fax: 020 7452 3030 And two decades since the paper began. headsets and neck loops to hearing- erves Favour, Olivier Theatre Email: boxoffice@nationaltheatre. WBR Jeremy impaired visitors. I would like to 26 February: Mrs Affleck, Cottesloe org.uk. 14 News hearing times  February 2009 Deaf children missing out in literacy lessons A kid’s charity is urging the Govern- justifiable reason why so many leave ment to take vital steps to ensure that primary school with levels of literacy deaf children are not left behind at so far below their school friends who school, following the announcement can hear. that additional funding will be granted ‘Ensuring that the teaching of pho- to phonics teaching in primary schools. nics is accessible to deaf children is a The Government’s national key recommendation from the Must do better! literacy strategy, Letters and Barriers to achievement by deaf children NDCS Must Do Better! cam- Sounds, aims to improve paign report on educational literacy standards in all chil- “When I grow up underachievement of deaf I want to be a vet. dren through the teaching of Will you let me?” children.’ phonics, but its emphasis on The charity also claims that the spoken word and listening the Letters and Sounds guid- disadvantages many children ance does not include any with a hearing loss. /%$4
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SFQPSU specific information on how to The National Deaf Children’s teach phonics to children with Society (NDCS) is calling on the Gov- a hearing loss or any other speech and ernment to ensure that deaf children language difficulty. There is also no will not fall further behind and want guidance on how lessons and activities some of the additional funding al- can be adapted to ensure these chil- located for the teaching of phonics in dren fully participate in the learning. primary schools to be used to help Phonics teaching is based on chil- deaf pupils. dren learning that there is a link They are also calling on the Govern- between the sounds of spoken lan- ment to publish advice and provide guage (phonemes) and the letters and training to help teachers ensure that spellings that represent those sounds pupils with hearing impairments fully in written language (graphemes). benefit from the national literacy As speech sounds fall between 20 to strategy. 60 decibels, children with severe deaf- Official figures suggest that over ness will not be able to hear sounds of a quarter (28%) of all deaf children less than 70 decibels, while profoundly leave primary school without a basic deaf children will not be able to hear understanding of literacy, compared sounds of less than 95 decibels. with just 6% of all children. For more information on the Must Do NDCS said: ‘Deafness is not a Better! campaign, email campaigns@ learning disability, and there is no ndcs.org.uk. How to subscribe to Hearing Times

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Postcode...... Telephone...... Email address...... February 2009  hearing times sport 15 It’s ‘all go’ Deaf sailors raise at the Wales Deaf Golf funds for regattas Association A lavish three-course meal was on The Wales Deaf Golf Association is

the menu for a recent fundraising aylor awash with activity this month as it T event held by Deaf Sailing UK. reveals plans for four key events this

Over 70 people attended the dinner ndrew year. at Sussex Yacht Club in West Sussex, The Open Medal Round Champi- with an inspirational speech by guest onship tournament will be held on of honour Oliver Westbury, the first Saturday 25 July 2009 at Cottrell Park deaf person to reach the North Pole. in Cardiff, and is open to any keen hoto: Courtesyhoto: of A The dinner was held to raise funds P golf enthusiasts out there. For more for the team’s entry into the coming information on the day and an entry year’s national and regional sailing form, please contact the club secre- events, and included donations from tary Jason Davies on d.j.davies70@ 67 yacht club owners from East- hotmail.co.uk. bourne, Brighton, Cherbourg and The club is also on the look-out for many others. sponsors and donations to raise funds Oliver, 26, was called in to replace Hard at port: the dinner raised funds for Deaf Sailing UK to enter future sailing events for the team to take part in the 2010 regular speaker Paul Hebblethwaite, Golf World Cup, due to take place in a round-the-world deaf yachtsmaster Oliver were whittled down to the final Scotland. who has emigrated to Australia. team of seven people selected for the More information on this event will Paul and his crew mate, Carolyn North Pole expedition. He joked that feature in forthcoming issues of Davis, became the first deaf people to he would enter the London Marathon Hearing Times, but in the meantime sail every leg in the Global Challenge as his last run when he is retired. please visit the official WDGA website Race 1996-97. The evening culminated with the at www.freewebs.com/wdga/. Oliver, who grew up at Waterlooville announcement that Sussex Yacht Club It has also been exclusively revealed near Portsmouth, gave his full extra­ will be hosting a one-day sailing taster to Hearing Times that the WDGA will ordinary account of his North Pole on the following dates in 2009: 16 be making a bid to host the 2014 expedition talk, which was his fifth May; 11 July and 5 September. World Deaf Golf Cup, hopefully to take presentation this year. The club will also host two Royal part at the lavish Celtic Manor golf With the assistance of his Power- Yachting Association (RYA) Level 1/2 resort in Newport. The club is cur- point projector and an interpreter, dinghy training weekend courses rently in the initial stages of the bid, David Hewitt, Oliver explained how his on 28-29 March and 10-11 October. and everyone at Hearing Times wishes experience of international marathon Those who wish to book the RYA them the very best of luck over the runs over the last three years helped course on one of the above dates, coming years. him to pass both the physical and at- please email Mike Aston on mike.as- Finally, the WGDA Annual General titude training tests during a series of [email protected]. To book a place on Meeting is taking place on Saturday the training weekends. the taster course, please contact Laura Full sail ahead: Deaf Sailing UK is racing 21 February at Chester Golf Club. The In the end, 14 candidates including Willis on [email protected]. ahead to raise money for events in 2009 proceedings kick-off at 1pm, and for more information please contact the club secretary Jason Davies on the Hearing Times teams up with UK aforementioned email address. Deaf Sport to bring you the news GB Men’s Over the next few months, Hearing like to see covered in the newspaper, ‘Hopefully, we will be able to receive Times Sports will be contributed by a please email editorial@hearingtimes. many more enquires from profession- Football tip UK Deaf Sport (UKDS) representative. co.uk. If possible, please try to include als or parents asking for sport clubs. This means that we will be able to some high quality photos as well, to Their children will have more opportu- get more sports news, more pictures make your article more eye-catching! nity to mix with others as well develop and more interviews straight from the UKDS co-ordinator Gordon Hay said their sporting skills early in their life their hats to source. This doesn’t mean that we he was very excited to be working rather than “leaving it late”,’ Gordon don’t want you, the reader, to stop with Hearing Times, and is looking told Hearing Times. sending us your stories and events. forward to the benefits the partnership Keep checking back for updates, and fundraising If you have anything that you would will have for readers. we welcome UKDS to Hearing Times. GB Men’s Football have come up with a rather unique way to raise funds for their Taiwan Dealympics quest – a Hat Female footballers set sights on gold Party! Tickets are priced at £6 in advance George McGowan, the GB Women’s again, to go for that all important gold 9. Laura Wiseman (Norfolk) and £8 on the door, and all guests are Football manager, has finalised his medal!’ Susan said. 10 Cathy Hamill (Motherwell) urged to wear their most ridiculous selection of 21 women to represent ‘I’m so proud to be part of the squad 11. Lisa Nepean (Essex) headgear to the bash. Great Britain at the 21st Deaflympics and thrilled to bits to be given the 12. Clare Davies (Middlesex) Those without a hat will be fined in Tapei, Taiwan, later this year. chance to emulate Britain’s successful 13. Louise Hogan (London) £5, with all proceeds from tickets and Among the lucky ladies was striker Olympic athletes. It’s wonderful!’ 14. Susan McKeown (Tyne & Wear) fines going straight into the GB Men’s Susan McKeown who told Hearing The following is a list of the GBDWF 15. Carly Waters (Essex) Football pot. Times of her elation at being picked. Final Squad for the Deaflympic Games: 16. Annie Straw (Derbyshire) Tickets can be purchased in advance ‘I’m really delighted to have been 1. Beatrice Webster (Glasgow) 17. Esther Maycock (Surrey) from www.britishdeaffootball.com, and selected for GB Deaf Women’s Football 2. Sarah Page (Northumberland) 18. Susanna Kenward (Middlesex) festivities kick off at 7.30pm on 21 squad to go to Taiwan in September 3. Donna Cross (Cheshire) 19. Jessica Everhurst (Merseyside) February 2009 at the Leeds Society for for the 2009 Deaflympics! After having 4. Catherine Eyley (Nottinghamshire) 20 Camilla Willis (Surrey) Deaf and Blind People in North Street, the absolutely fantastic experience of 5. Claire Stancliffe (Northamptonshire) 21 Roanna Simmons (Sussex) Leeds. being involved at the last Deaflympics 6. Damaris Cooke (London) On behalf of GBDWF, congratulations Alternatively, you can contact in Melbourne, it’s amazing to have the 7. Victoria Wenman (Surrey) to the selected players and the best of [email protected] by email opportunity to represent Great Britain 8. Lydia Docker (London) British luck for the Deaflympics! for tickets and information. 16 Sport hearing times  February 2009 Second cash blow

Stefan Pichowski, chairman of England Cricket Association for the Deaf hits Deaflympics Great Britain’s Deaflympic champions have been dealt another staggering Keen young blow with the announcement that UK Sport will definitely NOT fund their bid cricketers get for gold in Taiwan this September. The athletes have been left reeling after this shock announcement, with chance to play less than nine months to go until the games kick off. UK Deaf Sport (UKDS) submitted in World Cup a short summary proposal for con­

sideration for funding to UK Sport which of DUKA Courtesy Campbell of Sandra Photo: England Deaf Cricket have just was discussed recently, but the board announced two training weekends for made it clear that all of their money squad players and young players as will be going towards the Olympics and they look towards sending a team to Paralympic 2012 games. New Zealand to compete in the 3rd UKDS have now blasted the decision, World Cup in December 2009. claiming that issues of inequality The weekends are to be held over have arisen as the Deaflympics are the 14-15 February in Hove, Sussex, not recognised in the same way the (9am-4pm) and 28-29 March at Olympics and Paralympics are. Durham County Cricket Club (12-5pm In a statement, a UKDS spokesperson on Saturday, 9am-2pm on Sunday). said: ‘UK Deaf Sport is extremely angry Young budding cricketers are invited and disappointed with the decision from Going for gold: Deaflympic medallists Candy Hawkins (bronze) and Lauren Peffers (gold) to take part on the Saturdays only, UK Sport, which inevitably leaves GB where a team of trainee coaches will Deaflympic athletes in a very vulnerable talented athlete scholarship scheme, meet the performance standard for practise their coaching skills. position. We intend to make formal which could be used to fund promising UK Sport’s World Class Performance Stefan Pichowski, chairman of Eng­ appeal against their decision within the athletes from these 12 sports. Programme, and are nominated by their land Cricket Association for the Deaf next 28 days. A UKDS spokesperson insisted in an National Governing Body for funding to (ECAD), said that players must attend ‘UK Deaf Sport will therefore resume official statement that the Deaflympians enable them to compete at the Olympic every training session and match to its campaign over the course of the were not the only athletes to suffer or Paralympic Games would, of course, be selected. ‘The players have a once- next 72 hours and will require an all-out from cutbacks, and that money simply be funded,’ UKDS said. in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent and large scale effort and support from couldn’t be found to support them. The news is the second blow suffered England in a cricket World Cup and these Deaf Sport Organisations, athletes and ‘The UK Sport Board considered UK by deaf athletes in less than a year. limited places must be earned with supporters from all over the UK to join Deaf Sport’s request for funding to In the first issue of Hearing Times, we commitment, desire, playing abilities. in to condemn the latest actions from send a larger team of athletes and reported that an initial plea for funding ‘I will be leading a very strong line UK Sport and the Government.’ officials to the 2009 Deaflympics very had been shunned, with the chairman to influence the selectors to look more The decision comes days after UK seriously but were unable to offer an of UKDS, Craig Crowley, branding the favourably at those who have shown Sport announced a cut in funding for award,’ read the statement. move ‘a clear case of discrimination’. the commitments to travel, train hard, eight Olympic and four Paralympic ‘UK Sport’s primary role is to Hearing Times readers can lend work together as a team, helping other sports in the run-up to 2012. maximise the impact of public funding their support to the GB Deaflympians team members than those who are UK Sport chairman Sue Campbell on excellence in sports competing in several ways. To sign the online expected to warrant their places with a blamed the current economic climate in the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic petition urging the Government to take name in the starting line-up. for the series of cuts, saying: ‘The Games. We are currently operating action, please visit the website http:// ‘The cricket World Cup in New Zea­ past few months have not been easy with a shortfall of £50m to support our petitions.pm.gov.uk/GBDeaflympics/. land will only come around perhaps for anyone, and the decisions we have Olympic and Paralympic ambitions; and You can also visit www.ukdeafsport. once in the players’ lifetimes, so the taken have been tough. as such, we are not currently able to org.uk where you can find information limited places will go to those that have ‘But I firmly believe we have done fund all of those sports at an optimal on sponsorship. warranted their places at the training the best we can to deliver for all sports level for the period up to 2012. Craig said back in October: ‘We must weekends and warm-up matches. whilst remaining true to our core ‘As a result, this has led to us having have a FAIR deal for deaf sportspeople. ‘I will be expecting to see the majority responsibility of driving medal success, to make some very tough decisions This lack of justice for Deaf Sport means of our players at the Hove and Durham that was seen to deliver so well in and we are phasing out funding of non- we are going back into the past. This weekends and reward will be served to Beijing.’ Olympic and Paralympic sports beyond is threatening the potential for Deaf those that deserve it,’ he added. However, UK Sport have secured an existing commitments. Sport, especially in delivering of the up If anyone is interested, they can additional £1.8m from Sports Aid’s ‘Having said that, deaf athletes who and coming deaf athletes,’ he added. contact the ECAD secretary on [email protected].

Do you have a sports story you want to share with us? Deaf tennis tournament announced We would love to hear from you, The Tennis Foundation and the British give GB National Deaf Tennis Squad according to International Committee no matter how small your story. Deaf Tennis Association are now inviting members the chance of three days of of Sport for the Deaf (ICSD) eligibility rules and therefore all entrants must Email: entries for the 2009 National Deaf intense competition as they continue Tennis Championships, which takes their preparations for the Taiwan have a hearing loss of 55 decibels or [email protected] place at the National Tennis Centre, Deaflympics. more in the best ear. or write to us at: Roehampton, London, from 2-4 May. As well as ‘open’ divisions singles and For further details or an entry form, Hearing Times Ltd This will be the first National Deaf doubles events for the country’s leading please contact Becky Drew (Tournament The Lansbury Estate, 102 Lower Tennis Championships and the first players, the National Championships Director) at The Tennis Foundation. Guildford Road, Woking, Surrey, National Championships organised by also includes B Division events for Email: Beck.Drew@tennisfoundation. GU21 2EP The Tennis Foundation to be held at the younger new and up-and-coming org.uk Tel: 020 8487 7119 Fax: 020 or visit our website at: National Tennis Centre in Roehampton, players and therefore caters for players 8487 7304 Minicom: 020 8487 7311 www.hearingtimes.co.uk London, the home of British tennis. of all standards. Visit: www.tennisfoundation.org.uk/ The National Championships will The National Championships is held disabilitytennis/deaftennis/

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