I Feel Brave When I’M with Growing Her up Together How Hearing Dog Waffle Helped “It’S an Experience Sarah Find Her Confidence They Will Treasure Forever”

Issue 57 SPRING 2018 £1.75 when sold

The magazine from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

Brain training Activities to PLUS teach your dog A virtual tour of our new building at The Grange Paws for coffee with Stephanie Beacham Cockaperfect! The lowdown on this special mixed breed

I feel brave when I’m with Growing her up together How hearing dog Waffle helped “It’s an experience Sarah find her confidence they will treasure forever”

Contents Spring 2018 10

CLEVER COCKAPOOS Find out why these 18 sociable and hardworking pups make excellent hearing Regulars dogs, page 26 Welcome! 04 Newshound A royal visit, The Silent Child and recognition We don’t want anyone to experience losing a for good practice in the workplace hearing dog without another dog being ready 08 Life-saving mission to step into their pawprints – Carol Roderick’s Why no deaf person should have to wait story proves just how important that is (page 8). for a successor dog Training new hearing dogs wouldn’t be possible 20 You & your dog without the support of our amazing volunteers Top tips for stimulating your dog’s brain and Lynda McGregor discovered there were 22 Kids corner benefits for the whole family (page 14). Our Fun and inspiring stories for younger readers new state-of-the-art visitor centre had the royal 28 Ask the experts seal of approval in March and we invite you to take a virtual tour Dr Lorraine Gailey explains everything you need to know about hearing loops (page 10) to discover what’s on offer – from freshly made food and drinks to the very latest technology, including hearing loops, 30 Paws for coffee Actress Stephanie Beacham on why she is so which are explained in more detail on page 28. passionate about supporting Hearing Dogs Gill Lacey Editor Features 10 The Grange Take a virtual tour of our new building including: restaurant, shop and The Hearing Hub magazine is named after Hearing Dogs’ very first dog Favour. 12 Awards review Hearing Dogs for Deaf People Royal Patron Meet two very special hearing dogs The Grange, Wycombe Road, HRH The Princess Royal Saunderton, Princes Risborough Registered charity in England and 14 Puppy socialising HP27 9NS Wales no. 293358 and Scotland How volunteering can benefit the whole family Useful contact details T 01844 348100 no. SC040486 F 01844 348101 Fundraising: 01844 348109 16 Puppy pen E [email protected] Member of UK Council on Volunteering: 01844 348122 Behind the scenes with our sponsor pups www.hearingdogs.org.uk Deafness, Assistance Dogs (UK), Media enquiries: 01844 348137 Cover photo of Sarah Khanzadeh and Assistance Dogs Europe and 18 Awareness Waffle by Nicky Stock Assistance Dogs International Learning to live with otosclerosis

Articles and features: printed in Favour are not necessarily the views of the Charity NEXT ISSUE 24 Fundraising but are the views expressed by the writers. We welcome your comments. Look out for the Our corporate and community supporters Advertisements: Hearing Dogs for Deaf People cannot be liable to any person for loss next issue in or damage incurred or suffered as a result of his/her accepting or offering to accept goods autumn 2018 26 or services contained in any advertisement reproduced in Favour. Readers should make Breed profile appropriate enquiries before incurring any expense or contractual obligation. Why sociable and hard-working Cockapoos Produced by : 90 Walcot Street, Bath, BA2 5BG. www.jamespembrokemedia.co.uk make top hearing dogs

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 3 Newshound Updates from our latest appeals and news about our favourite dogs – we sniff out the stories that matter to you…

VIP GUEST FRIENDS FOR The Grange LIFE: SARAH gets royal AND WAFFLE YOUNG SARAH Khanzadeh’s hearing dog Waffle was a finalist seal of at Cruft’s in the Kennel Club’s Friends for Life 2018, which celebrates dogs who provide approval lifetime service, support, love and devotion. HRH The Princess Royal Sarah, 14, who is profoundly Paul Wilkinson Paul unveils plaque at our new deaf, went to a mainstream HRH The Princess Royal school but found it very isolating admires the plaque

state-of-the-art building Photos: and struggled to make friends. “Her confidence to try was n March we welcomed HRH, who laid the The Grange, which is broken,” explains her mum, HRH The Princess Royal foundation stone for due to open later in April, Sapedeh. “She felt extremely I back to our Saunderton- the new building in offers a warm welcome to lonely – even at her young age.” based headquarters. During 2016, met some of the all, including families and In 2013, Sarah, then nine, met her visit, our Royal Patron, Charity’s benefi ciaries their four-legged friends. Waffle at Hearing Dogs and now unveiled a plaque to mark and volunteers with their Most importantly, every she is a completely different child. the conclusion of building hearing dogs, as well as a penny of profi t will go “Sarah feels happy – truly works for The Grange – a number of local dignitaries. to supporting our life- happy – for the first time in her brand new restaurant, gift The Charity took the changing work, helping life,” explains Sapedeh. “It’s shop and Hearing Hub. opportunity to thank key people embrace life, changed everything for her.” “Waffle is amazing,” adds funders and whatever their level of Sarah. “She makes me feel like supporters, hearing. From a state- I can do anything.” without whom of-the-art hearing loop, • Read more about Sarah and the project could to acoustic fl ooring, wall Waffle on pages 26–27. not have been covers and ‘sound completed. Our clouds’, The Grange special visitors has been designed with Waffl e and took a tour of deafness and hearing loss Sarah the magnifi cent in mind. building, • To read more about The exploring Grange and how we are the hearing- making this new venue friendly features accessible to all, especially incorporated for people with deafness Flick.digital Flick.digital HRH meets volunteers and into the new and hearing loss, please trainee hearing dog Hunter venue. turn to pages 10–11. Photo: Photo:

4 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk NEWS

WINNER: HEARING DOGS OPEN DOORS AWARD

NO MORE STAMPS OR FOREIGN COINS WE HAVE reluctantly taken the decision that we will no longer Lisa Baldock representing her employer DWP at the fundraise by collecting used stamps Hearing Dogs Awards 2017 and foreign coins Thanks to the efforts of our supporters, we were able to raise £6,566 during 2017. However, most of AWARDS this was raised in the first half of the year and for the past six months we have experienced a significant drop, Open Doors not only in the amount we were being paid for the stamps but also in the quality of service that our supporters Award for DWP were receiving. Many more people are trading in Employer recognised for access and inclusion policies this area and the market value for stamps has dropped considerably. The he Department of Work and return in the future is unlikely to Pensions has been awarded increase and stamp dealers are no TThe Hearing Dogs Open longer prepared to offer us Freepost Doors Awards 2017 in recognition envelopes in the quantities we need. of the way its access and inclusion We would like to say a huge thank policies have enabled a disabled you to everyone who has supported employee with deafness to us by collecting used stamps and achieve her career goals. foreign coins. The time and effort has Along with other disabled directly contributed to the training of employees, the DWP supports Lisa several hearing dogs. Baldock, who works full-time at the There are still lots of ways you can organisation’s offices in central support us. To find out more please go London with her hearing dog, Inca. to www.hearingdogs.org.uk/support Lisa, 42, from Fratton, who also Debbie Alder of DWP or call 01844 348109. with Rula Lenska, fundraises for Hearing Dogs, said: Lisa and Inca “I never thought I’d be where I am in my career. Being able to have Jonathan Russell, HR Director Inca here in work with me has for DWP, said a number of given me the independence supportive features had been I needed to succeed and has really introduced to support staff like made me feel part of the team. Lisa with hearing loss, including “The DWP has given me the the provision of a ‘Roger Pen’, tools and the confidence that a wireless microphone to I needed to do the job. They have improve Lisa’s understanding of literally opened doors for me.” conversation during meetings. SPRING RAFFLE THERE’S A top prize of MBE for Lisa £5,000 up for grabs in the Lisa is also celebrating after being made an MBE. Lisa, who was born Hearing Dogs Spring Raffle. To with sensorineural hearing loss, has launched a number of schemes show your support, please call to support people while at work, including the Disability Passport, 0800 954 0257 or go to which is now used across the civil service. “I cried when I opened the www.hearingdogs.org.uk/raffle letter,” she said. “I wasn’t expecting it at all.”

STAY IN TOUCH: twitter.com/HearingDogs facebook.com/hearingdogs www.hearingdogs.org.uk

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 5 NEWS

PARTNERSHIPS Launch of new music festival

new partnership between “The one-day event will raise Bucks New Uni and Hearing funds to train more hearing dogs A Dogs for Deaf People will and we hope lots of families will see live music showcased at The come and enjoy a great day out.” Grange this spring. There will be live signing on SubWoofers will take place on stage for BSL users, disabled access Sunday 6 May in the Charity’s provision, family-friendly attractions YOU MAKE US grounds near Princes Risborough. and of course, dogs will be welcome SMILE AMAZON Michele Jennings, chief executive to join in the fun! of Hearing Dogs, says: “With the Tickets for the event, from 1pm HEARING DOGS can earn growth in music festivals over recent to 7pm, cost £30 family; £15 adult; 0.5% from all of your years, we want everyone to enjoy £10 concessions; and £5 child. You Amazon orders when you shop live music – but remember to look can buy your tickets at: through Smile Amazon – and at no after their hearing. www.hearingdogs.org.uk/subwoofers extra cost to you. From 1 April, simply go to Smile Amazon website, select Hearing Dogs and then everything you buy FILM FIRST will help support Hearing Dogs for Deaf People – and that’s definitely something to smile about! For more The Silent Child details visit Smile.Amazon.co.uk triumphs at Oscars

short fi lm about The fi lm was written by Maisie Sly in the struggles deaf former Hollyoaks actress The Silent Child A children face has Rachel Shenton, who also won an Oscar. Set in rural plays the social worker, and England and inspired by real- stars seven-year-old deaf girl life events, The Silent Child Maisie Sly from Swindon. won the award for best live Rachel said: “My brilliant action short fi lm. It tells the father lost his hearing very story of a profoundly deaf suddenly when I was 12 four-year-old who struggles and lived the last two years to communicate until a of his life profoundly deaf. caring social worker teaches I witnessed fi rst-hand the her sign language. huge effects deafness has on a family. “This project Chris Overton is inspired by and Rachel real-life events Children’s Society, used sign Director Chris Overton – who Shenton that are sadly language in her acceptance also appeared in Hollyoaks not uncommon speech. “I made a promise – said his mum made and this is a to our lead actress that I cupcakes to help fund the story that has would sign this speech,” she project, which Rachel’s mum to be told.” explained, at the ceremony and her partner then sold Rachel, a in Hollywood on 4 March. at work. qualifi ed British “My hands are shaking a Maisie didn’t go up on Sign Language little bit so I apologise,” stage to collect the award Interpreter and she added. but Overton said: “When we ambassador The project was only won I could see her up there for the made possible through a jumping up and down and National Deaf crowdfunding campaign. that was surreal.”

6 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk NEWS STAR TURN

Actress Star-studded awards night Jessica Jane Stafford, who has We were delighted to welcome so many celebrity hearing supporters to the Specsavers Hearing Dogs Awards 2017 loss, and celebrity hairdresser Lee Stafford

TOP HONOURS Turn to pages 12–13 to meet two Our patron TV presenter of our award Tony Jardine and Tim Vincent awards host Rachel Riley Ben Fogle Actress Rula Lenska winners

Rebecca Wilcox presented the Desmond Wilcox Former Strictly Volunteer of the Year Award TV vet Marc Abraham star Karen Hardy Journalist Kate Adie

Diary dates HEARING DOGS LATE SUMMER EVENTS AT THE GRANGE, PRINCES THE POPPLETON SHOW RISBOROUGH, SAUNDERTON VOLUNTEER FAIR • 12 May Kedleston 9 Sept When: 12 May, 1–3pm Hall, Derbyshire VOLUNTEER FAIR Where: Poppleton Tithe Barn, Nether • 19 May When: Saturday 14 April, 11am–1pm Poppleton, York YO26 6LF Lyme Park, Stockport, Cheshire • 19 May Foxbury Common, New Forest, SUBWOOFERS FESTIVAL Hampshire When: 6 May, 1–7pm THE GREAT • 2 June Canonteign Falls, Exeter, Devon BRITISH DOG WALK • 9 June New Inn Farm, Stowe, HEARING DOGS SPORTIVE When and where: Choose your favourite Buckinghamshire When: 22 July, from 6.30am UK location from the following list: • 16 June Frog Firle Farm, Alfriston, • 8 April Margam Park, Neath, East Sussex HEARING DOGS LATE West Glamorgan • 17 June Belvoir Castle, Grantham, SUMMER SHOW • 14 April Burton Contstable Hall, Leicestershire When: 9 September, 11am–4pm East Yorkshire • 30 June Chatsworth House, • 21 April Ightham Mote, Kent Bakewell, Derbyshire EVENTS ELSEWHERE • 22 April Pollok Park, Glasgow, Scotland • 1 July Wimpole Hall, Cambridgeshire • 28 April Windsor Great Park, Berkshire Sign up: www.greatbritishdogwalk.org WOODLAND WALK AT ARLEY • 5 May Ickworth Park, Suffolk When: 15 April, 10am • 12 May Hughenden Manor, For details of all events please see our Where: Arley Hall & Gardens CW9 6NA Buckinghamshire website www.hearingdogs.org.uk/events

STAY IN TOUCH: twitter.com/HearingDogs facebook.com/hearingdogs www.hearingdogs.org.uk

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 7 APPEAL

“MY HEARING DOG SAVED MY LIFE” Carol and Trevor Roderick know only too well how life-changing a hearing dog can be

Carol was devastated when Rilla died

Please help us train MORE LIFE-SAVING DOGS LIKE DANA

8 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk APPEAL

HELP SOMEONE LIKE CAROL It costs us £25,000 to train a successor hearing dog like Dana. Please make a donation today if you’d like to help train another such hero. However big or small, your gift will make a real and lasting difference to deaf people – and that’s a promise. Thank you.

How to donate

If this magazine has been mailed to you, please use the donation form enclosed Write a cheque to Hearing Dogs for Trevor is certain that Dana saved Carol’s life Deaf People and post to: Freepost RSGX-LSRG-UCGH, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, The Grange, Wycombe Road, Saunderton, arol Roderick was born Princes Risborough HP27 9NS deaf and knows how tough Donate online at life can be. Bullied at www.hearingdogs.org.uk/donate school, she later suffered loneliness and anxiety, and Conly really found her confidence when she got her first hearing dog, Rosie. tried so hard to keep me going, but I’d I managed to whisper ‘fetch Trevor’. Dana “She became an integral part of the lost all my confidence. I became very seemed reluctant to leave me, but she did.” family,” explains Carol, now 72. “And as withdrawn. I tried to put on a brave face Trevor was on the sofa when Dana Rosie reached retirement I was matched in public but behind closed doors I’d cry came downstairs. “I can’t explain it, with my second hearing dog, Rilla. The two a lot. I became very unwell, emotionally but just by her body language and the dogs were very different but lived happily and physically.” way she looked at me I knew there was side by side for about 18 months.” something very wrong,” he says. Trevor When Rosie died, Carol was heartbroken, New lease of life found Carol collapsed on the bathroom but having Rilla there made all the Then, in 2013, Carol got the call she’d been floor. “I couldn’t get any sense out of difference. “She gave me enormous waiting for from Hearing Dogs. her,” he says. “Her eyes were open but comfort and support,” explains Carol. “In “I completely changed – quite literally she wasn’t responding, so I dialled 999.” all the time I was grieving for Rosie I never overnight I came alive again. The prospect Trevor is in no doubt that Dana saved once felt isolated or lonely.” of getting Dana gave me a purpose; Carol’s life. “The doctors said Carol was something to get up for. I can remember minutes away from death. This clever dog Dark times saying to Trevor that it was like Dana had was able to communicate the urgency of Rilla was just 12 when she became ill given me my life back.” the situation.” quite suddenly. Two weeks later she was The couple had no idea how Dana is now six and not due to retire gone. Carol was bereft and became very significant that comment would prove to any time soon, but Trevor and Carol know depressed. “The heartache when I lost be until the following year, when Carol’s only too well what the consequences Rosie was nothing to the pain and intensity recurring stomach problems worsened. would have been had Dana not been there of the loss I felt when Rilla died,” she says. One day, in a lot of pain, she went that day. “I’d lost my shadow and everything she upstairs to the bathroom – followed, as “We hope no one has to experience represented to me as my hearing dog; I usual, by Dana. losing their hearing dog without there felt isolated, lonely and afraid. “The next thing I remember was Dana being another little dog ready to step into “It was a very dark time. I gave up looking down at me,” explains Carol. their pawprints,” says Carol. my job. My wonderful husband Trevor “Her beautiful brown eyes full of worry. “Dana means the world to me and my family – having a hearing dog really can be the difference between life and death.” Carol was minutes away from death More stories but this clever dog was able to communicate To read more inspiring partnership stories, please visit: the urgency of the situation www.hearingdogs.org.uk/stories

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 9 THE GRANGE Welcome to The Grange The Grange Restaurant and Gift Shop, at Hearing Dogs HQ in the heart of the beautiful Chiltern Hills, The ‘sound has been designed with acoustics and accessibility clouds’ help to enhance in mind. Join us on a tour of the new facility… the listening experience

the smell of fresh coffee and delicious milk-warming station for babies. Families food will embrace you. You’ll be spoilt can explore the grounds, discover longer for choice by the menu: there’s a wide countryside walks nearby, or simply selection of seasonal dishes catering for browse in the gift shop at one end of the all tastes – from freshly grilled savoury restaurant for stylish treats or pocket- waffles and super fruit and nut porridge money presents. to gluten-free falafel salads and Cornish fish pie – all freshly prepared by our team Dog-friendly of expert chefs. Breakfast, lunch and Being the home of afternoon tea are available throughout Hearing Dogs for the week, you can pop in at the weekend Deaf People, of for a refreshing coffee and a snack, course there’s a warm or linger over Sunday lunch – all at welcome for our four- affordable prices. legged friends! Dogs are welcome inside The Grange Restaurant, Welcoming families with ample seating outside too. In time, For those with young children, there’s a we look forward to introducing extra safe soft play area as well as light bites treats, including an agility course, dog Location and tasty treats designed with little ones grooming and dog training lectures to One of the first things people say when in mind. Parents will also appreciate the really enhance our visitor experience. they see our Hearing Dogs headquarters The Grange is perfectly situated to enjoy for the first time is ‘what a beautiful secure walks locally in the grounds, location’. The Chilterns are designated as or hikes further afield in the beautiful an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Chilterns. Maps of local walks to explore We are surrounded by green fields, will soon be available for visitors. trees, bridleways, footpaths and cycle paths. The countryside is renowned for Latest technology its sweeping chalk grasslands and wild Beyond the restaurant, the new building flowers, its magnificent beech woods, boasts an elegant and relaxed setting, sparkling chalk streams, wooded valleys which has been created with acoustics and quiet lanes. The Grange, right in the and accessibility in mind. It offers the heart of this beautiful area, is perfectly located for walkers and cyclists, and easily accessible by road and rail. There’s “THE GRANGE a mouth- Refreshments watering IS PERFECTLY Arriving through the automated glass menu to doors into The Grange Restaurant, choose from SITUATED”

10 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk THE GRANGE

The Grange Restaurant

Take home a ﬂ uffy puppy of your own from the gift shop

Planning experiences. Staff and volunteers will be trained in deaf and hearing loss your visit* awareness. Wheelchair users will also be able to navigate throughout the venue. Opening hours Mon–Thurs: 9am–4pm The Hearing Hub Fri–Sat: 9am–7pm Sunday: 10am–4pm Locals and visitors from further afield are welcome to visit The Hearing Hub at Location perfect opportunity to raise awareness The Grange – a unique new service which Find us at The Grange, about the importance of hearing, as offers communication and technology Haw Lane, Saunderton, well as the vital work of both charities support, including hearing products, Princes Risborough HP27 9NS involved, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People information and advice to help people and Hearing Link. Working closely with better understand and manage their own Extra information our team from Hearing Link, we’ve hearing, or the hearing of someone else. Ample parking and free installed a state-of-the-art hearing Wi-Fi available loop, acoustic flooring and ‘sound Profits for charity Find out more clouds’ to enhance everyone’s listening Our ambition is for all our visitors to feel Visit our website: welcome and leave us feeling happy, www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ whether you visit the restaurant, gift thegrange shop, The Hearing Hub or just pop Call Hearing Dogs on by for a refreshing drink and a walk 01844 348100 or email with your dog in this beautiful setting. [email protected] Underpinning everyone’s experience will be the knowledge that every penny of *Please check website for official profit supports our life-changing work, opening date before your visit; helping people to embrace life, whatever reservations are not yet available Volunteers offer advice their level of hearing. in The Hearing Hub

Spring 2018 FAVOUR 11 AWARDS Meet two very special award winners Remarkable hearing dogs Tapper and Nero knew just what to do in a time of crisis

WINNER: SPECSAVERS LIFE-CHANGING “I’d be in HEARING DOG OF a much THE YEAR AWARD darker place without Tapper”

ouise Pocock’s son Ben died when Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 was shot down over Ukraine in July 2014 and she says she L doesn’t know how she would have coped with the tragedy without her hearing dog Tapper. Louise, from Bristol, was born deaf and applied for her first hearing dog when her children were small. Her second hearing dog, Moss, died Louise says Tapper suddenly just before Ben’s death. has helped her to “It was a big shock,” she says. “I talked move on after her son Ben’s death to the family about getting another one and filled out the forms just before Ben left for Australia on a university placement. “Then we received the devastating news “HE JUST SEEMS move on’. I still have my ups and downs. that Ben’s plane had been shot down. I That’s only natural. But I think I’d be in remember everything like it was yesterday.” TO KNOW WHEN a much darker place without Tapper. He understands me somehow. He’s a very Instant connection I’M DOWN” special dog.” On the Wednesday after Ben’s funeral, Louise lost her mum and her daughter Tapper also gets me out of the house could see she wasn’t coping. When Louise and talking to people. He’s a very sociable Tribute to Ben was invited by Hearing Dogs to meet dog. He just loves people. That has been Ben’s university friends, Jamie, Will Tapper they formed an instant bond. a real help. and David, want to raise £10,000 to “He was lovely,” explains Louise. “Sometimes I have moments when name a hearing dog in Ben’s memory. “From that first moment he stayed I’m overcome with sadness and Tapper To support their fundraising goal, close by me, like he knew I needed him. will curl up on my lap. I’ll stroke him and please go to: www.justgiving.com/ He just seems to know when I’m down. then I think ‘Yes, I feel better now, let’s ben-pocock-LDNtriathlon

12 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk AWARDS

Charles and Nero receiving their award from Rachel Riley Charles credits Nero with saving his life “He’s my hero in every sense of the word”

hen Charles Bishop As Charles drifted in and out of suffered an acute consciousness, Nero put his head under loss of memory Charles’ chin: “He instinctively knew during his regular something was very wrong,” says Charles. W morning walk “Each time my head nodded forwards Nero near Crystal Palace, London, his loyal and brought me to, putting his paw on my intuitive hearing dog Nero did something lap and nudging my head up. ” truly remarkable. “I started to feel unwell,” explains Total trust WINNER: Charles. “I was sat on a bench with no idea When Charles eventually HEROIC HEARING where or who I was. Sat calmly by my side, stood up, Nero pressed DOG OF THE YEAR Charles to sounds. Without his golden head resting firmly on my knee himself firmly against AWARD him Charles would have given and his soft brown eyes gazing up into Charles’ leg and, despite up. Nero takes away his mine, was Nero. He made me feel safe and being off his lead, managed to isolation and anxiety but he I knew that I trusted him.” guide Charles safely home. also really looks after Charles. “I don’t know how I would have He helps him to cope.” managed to get home if it hadn’t been for Charles says: “Nero makes me “WITHOUT NERO, Nero,” says Charles. “I had no idea where feel everything is normal, like nothing I lived, but I trusted Nero completely.” is wrong with me. I can’t describe what that I DON’T THINK Charles’ wife, Iris, had started to get means to me without getting emotional. worried because the pair had been out “He’s my life. Without Nero I’d be CHARLES WOULD for so long: “Without Nero, I don’t think completely and utterly lost. He’s very Charles would be here,” she says. “Nero is special indeed, a hero in every sense of BE HERE” so much more than a hearing dog alerting the word.”

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 13 VOLUNTEERING An experience they’ll treasure forever Volunteering for our Puppy Training scheme has had unexpected benefits for Lynda and her family Volunteer Lynda and Jasper

olunteering for Hearing a Poodle called Jasper. “I will love all the Dogs is very much a puppies forever,” says Kitty. “But the two Shake paws with… family affair for Lynda I will remember most are Jasper and a McGregor and her young Poodle called Mocha. grandchildren. “I feel sad when the dog goes, VLynda’s nine-year-old granddaughter because I’ve been with them so long, Kitty has loved playing a part in the dogs’ but at the same time I’m happy that training – she developed a very special they’re going to an owner who will be bond with Lynda’s most recent puppy, their best friend.”

JASPER CHEEKY AND Favourite food: Dental FULL OF FUN chews and seafood sticks! Jasper is now grown Loves: Children – they up and partnered with share his playful sense of fun Michelle Doggett. She is Hates: High-vis jackets. very grateful to everyone And foxes in ‘his’ garden involved in training Favourite walk: Foots Cray Meadows near where we live Jasper and has kept in Likes to sleep: Cuddled up touch with Lynda, as well on my lap or on top of as breeder Rosemary, Michelle and Jasper a blanket! who has Jasper’s mum, Favourite toy or game: Teaka. Chasing tennis balls. “I meet them at events Jasper’s mischievous Keeping in touch with the I always take two with us, so at The Grange and we past and keeping up to people who love Jasper he’ll drop the ﬁ rst ball keep in touch by email,” date with news of Teaka. as much as I do gives to chase the second! she says. “They love to “Jasper is a wonderful, me a lot of pleasure – in Is best friends with: My hear about Jasper and cheeky boy. He’s so full Jasper’s mind they’re mum’s dog Buddy, a black Miniature Poodle who was a what he’s been up to. of character and he’s family and that’s good hearing dog before he retired I also love hearing about always making me laugh. enough for me.”

14 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk VOLUNTEERING

Irene’s award was announced by Rebecca Wilcox A VERY SPECIAL VOLUNTEER

Irene Rich started volunteering for Hearing Dogs WINNER: Lynda has loved watching in 2010. Her DESMOND WILCOX her grandchildren bond friends had VOLUNTEER OF THE with the puppies YEAR AWARD become puppy socialisers and she was looking for something to do after taking early retirement. She is a breeding scheme volunteer, a speaker, and leads the North Hants and Surrey borders fundraising group, organising stalls and making sure they have enough stock. “Fundraising is a great way of meeting people,” she says. Kitty and Jasper “Everyone comes up to you if became fi rm friends you’ve got a dog with you!” Irene also helps with the Thursday tours at The Grange and organises a monthly dog walk, but she says her favourite part of volunteering is looking after It’s sad when the dog goes, but at the the newborn puppies. “It’s eight weeks of mayhem but same time I’m happy that they’re going to an it’s so wonderful,” she says. “When I take them to The Grange to go owner who will be their best friend off to their socialisers, I still have a little weep – even after fi ve litters!” Fortunately, Irene has her own “We’re used to seeing life through the Kitty, in particular, was very good dogs at home to keep her company eyes of our pups,” says Lynda. “But to see at working with the dogs and says she – hearing dog mum, Cora, who is our grandchildren through their eyes too might even become a puppy trainer part of the display team, and Evie, was wonderful. herself one day. who has done her silver Good Citizen’s Award. “Kitty and the boys learned through “Whatever our grandchildren end up Irene is partially deaf herself and love, patience and time how to turn doing, this has been a very special and knows just how much difference a these busy, boisterous pups into fantastic valuable experience – and one they’ll hearing dog can make. assistance dogs. We’ve been fortunate treasure always,” adds Lynda. “Deafness can be a very to meet both Erin and Jasper’s recipients isolating and confi dence-sapping and see for ourselves the wonderful disability,” she says. “Hearing Dogs bond they’ve formed. Being able to show Volunteer with us is a charity that changes people’s lives. You only have to meet a our grandchildren how their help and Could you provide a loving home for couple of recipients to realise the encouragement played such an important a hearing dog in training? To fi nd out difference that it makes to them. part in these dogs’ lives makes it all the how you can help visit our website: I absolutely love it!” more rewarding.” www.hearingdogs.org.uk/volunteer

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 15 PUPDATES

You can catch up with your sponsor pup in the Hearing Dogs Puppy Pen WITH LOVE FROM THE PUPPY PEN

It’s the part of our website where we show our puppy sponsors exclusive photos, videos and stories – and it’s all about puppy fun!

ho pays for our puppies’ training? It’s Nosey barkers! a question we’re often 1Our puppies are smart, which asked and the simple means they’re inquisitive. They like to Great balls of fur answer is people like investigate what’s going on around 2 Puppies might fly!* Well, they you.W A very important part of our income them. We make sure they’re happy appear to, anyway. They begin with is generated by puppy sponsorship, to be out and about, which gives hops, then move on to short glides (not paying a small amount every month to them the confidence to explore new actually flying, just… gliding). Finally, support a young dog’s training. environments, such as flower pots. they’re taken somewhere uplifting like In return, you get to follow your sponsor the beach or the countryside, where pup’s journey and go behind the scenes we just about manage to get them in in the Puppy Pen area of our website. It’s shot as they maintain constant altitude where we show more of our pups enjoying somewhere around waist height. life and all it has to offer – whether that’s *No puppies were harmed or forced to fly discovering a new sleeping position or – or indeed, actually flew at all – during the having fun with family and friends… making of this feature.

16 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk PUPDATES

SPONSOR A PUP, Making CHANGE A LIFE 3a splash If there’s one thing SOME PUPPY–DOG EYES our puppies love, it’s ARE SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE… water – and lots of it. Libby is a puppy who just melts They adore cooling off your heart. She loves the in paddling pools and camera as much as the camera they especially enjoy loves her. This adorable little splashing about in rivers. Cocker Spaniel is one of our current sponsor pups. To sponsor Libby or one of her friends please go to hearingdogs.org.uk/sponsor or refer to the enclosed form.

Press paws… 5How does the poem go? “What is this life if, full of care, we have no time to stop and stare…” Or dance around with children in a garden? We make sure our puppies have plenty of time to play.

Puppy love Libby says: “Please sponsor me! 4You’ve got to love the pup who I love to play hide-and-seek. I’m can look you in the eye and tilt his always up for a cuddle. And I head with an innocent ‘It wasn’t me!’ know of a deaf person who really expression – especially while he’s needs me.” sitting on top of the clean laundry, that’s mysteriously acquired pawprints and thrown itself all over the floor!

AS WELL AS ACCESS TO THE PUPPY PEN, HERE’S WHAT YOU GET WHEN YOU SPONSOR A PUPPY…

We’ll send you a welcome pack full of deaf person. It’s an amazing journey goodies – a certificate, postcard, we take together, and it all car sticker, notepad, pen and starts at just £3 per month. collection kennel, plus a soft toy and even a framed photo Complete the of your puppy, depending enclosed form or go on how much you sponsor for. to hearingdogs.org.uk/ Then, throughout the next sponsor – and join us in the 18–24 months, we’ll send you Puppy Pen soon! updates at key stages in your puppy’s training, from its first puppy classes, right through to being WHY I SPONSOR… Actress Stephanie Beacham partnered with a says: “Deafness can be isolating and lonely, but if you have a dog, people smile, or stop and say hello. I sponsor a puppy and I’ll do anything I can to publicise the Charity’s work.”

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 17 AWARENESS CAN YOU HELP? To provide more hearing dogs for people like Wendy, go to www.hearingdogs. “BETTY HAS org.uk/donate TRANSFORMED MY LIFE” WINNER: HEARING DOGS Otosclerosis left Wendy anxious and lonely COMMUNITY CHAMPION OF – until Betty arrived and restored her THE YEAR conﬁ dence. Now the award-winning hearing dog is helping Wendy care for others

endy Martin says bereavement support worker, visiting Quick facts that it’s only thanks vulnerable and elderly people. Betty to hearing dog Betty loved it and it was extremely rewarding ABOUT that she has the for both of us.” OTOSCLEROSIS confidence to leave Wendy and Betty now regularly Otosclerosis is a fairly common Wthe house again. At first, she had to visit a care home in Banbury and their cause of hearing loss in young go out because Betty needed regular wonderful work was recognised when adults. It affects the three walks but 61-year-old Wendy soon felt Betty was presented with the Hearing bones in the middle section of ready to do more. “I’d experienced Dogs Community Champion of the Year the ear – the malleus, incus and feeling lonely and isolated so I decided award by the Charity’s Patron, HRH The stapes. In order for people to to become a community liaison and Princess Royal. Wendy says: “Betty has have a full range of hearing, these bones need to move freely, but if someone has otosclerosis, bone material grows around them, restricting their movement and reducing the amount of sound that is Malleus transmitted to the cochlea. External The growth of this extra bone ear canal material is gradual, reducing Incus hearing over time, which means many people may have had the disease for a long time before it is diagnosed. Other symptoms include speaking quietly and hearing better than others when there is background noise. The symptoms are often more Stapes CLOSE UP OF marked during pregnancy. THE MIDDLE EAR The exact cause of otosclerosis is unknown but research has indicated that there may be a genetic link. Around two thirds of people with otosclerosis will have a family Cochlea Ear drum member with the condition. Otosclerosis causes Some studies also suggest a bone growth in the link to the measles virus. middle ear

18 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk AWARENESS

Shake paws with…

BETTY Favourite food: Cheese Wendy and Betty at the Loves: Swimming care home Hates: The hairdryer Favourite walk: The towpath to a dog-friendly pub Likes to sleep: By my bed Is best friends with: Winnie, totally transformed my life and together “BETTY HELPS brood bitch and demo dog for we try and do the same for others.” Dogs for Good. In addition to working in the care PEOPLE FORGET home, Wendy has become a registered speaker, giving talks about the Charity and THEIR WORRIES, every second. She has, quite literally, introducing audiences to six-year-old Betty. transformed my life.” EVEN IF JUST FOR Wendy now has the independence and Hereditary condition confidence to work, overcoming years Wendy first noticed she was losing her A SHORT TIME” of feeling anxious, stressed, isolated hearing aged 21 but it became more and lonely. “Betty is always looking out noticeable as she got older: “Colleagues “The impact was devastating. for me,” she says. “She discreetly shows started throwing things at me to get I felt isolated and fearful. I lost all my people that I have hearing loss, so they my attention, joking that I should confidence and my anxiety turned realise that I might not be able to hear get my ears tested. I was diagnosed into depression. I relied heavily on them and are more understanding. with otosclerosis – just like my mum. my husband, David, and my children. “Betty is also a big asset for the care Unfortunately, I’ve also passed it on to People were unaware I was deaf and home. Older people often have to give up my 24-year-old twin daughters, both of could be quite rude, thinking I was their pets so it’s lovely to have a dog here. whom wear hearing aids. ignoring them. My children found this Betty helps people forget their worries, “When I was 25 I had a stapedectomy very upsetting. I reached rock bottom even if just for a short time. You don’t on my left ear but it went wrong and I and didn’t want to leave the house. need a tablet; you just need a Betty!” lost all hearing on that side. A few years Then someone suggested applying Esther Monk, the clinical lead manager later, when I became pregnant, I lost the for a hearing dog. I waited a long at Green Pastures Christian Nursing residual hearing in my right ear. time for Betty but she was worth Home in Banbury, says: “As well as being an excellent hearing dog for Wendy and making sure she is alerted if the fire alarm goes off, Betty is a key member of LIVING WITH OTOSCLEROSIS our team. She accepts everyone without judgement and is always ready for a Otosclerosis can cause mild to severe discreet, and some can be worn inside your cuddle. This interaction with Betty makes hearing loss, but it very rarely ear so they are not obvious. causes total deafness. Your hearing usually Surgery is an option if you would prefer such a difference to the residents’ positive gets gradually worse over months or a few not to wear a hearing aid. The main mental well-being. Betty is a wonderful years, and may continue to get worse if operation used is called a stapedotomy or ambassador for the care home – in fact ignored and left untreated. stapedectomy. Hearing is improved or she is probably our greatest asset.” Otosclerosis can usually be treated restored in around 80-90% of people who successfully with either a hearing aid or have surgery, but, as with all operations, surgery. If your hearing loss is very mild, there are risks. you may not need any treatment at ﬁ rst. Very occasionally, otosclerosis can More Various types of hearing aid can increase spread to the inner ear, resulting in a real-life stories the volume of sound entering your ear. greater level of hearing loss that can’t be To read more inspiring real-life stories Modern hearing aids are small and improved with surgery. and ﬁ nd out about the work we do www.hearingdogs.org.uk/stories

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 19 YOU & YOUR DOG

RUFF AND READY! For another great DIY activity game turn to page 22

BRAIN TRAINING You can teach a dog of any age new tricks – here are some top tips designed to stimulate the canine mind

ental stimulation enriches our dogs’ Party tricks lives by giving Start by teaching your dog them something 2 to balance a treat on his meaningful to nose. Reward him quickly, and M gradually build up the time he waits. do. And because these activities alleviate boredom, they decrease 1 This is a good trick for dogs the likelihood of our dogs with mobility issues or developing behavioural issues, such restrictions. as excessive chewing or barking. If you’re looking for some easy ways to exercise your dog’s mind here USEFUL TRICKS are six ways to give your dog more mental stimulation… Both fun and helpful! Teach your dogs to put their toys away in a basket*, pick up the post, bring their lead or fetch your slippers. As they get better at a task you can start to make it more challenging – putting the item in a different place, for example.

20 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk TIDY UP

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TIDY UP

YOU & YOUR DOG

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PlayENGL5048.tif games ENGL5049.tif Tom’s topENGL5050.tif Throw and fetch games, such as playing ball or 3 Tom Green, Puppy training Frisbee, are popular with many Development Manager TIDY UP dogs. Hide-and-seek with a ball or tips toy are good options for those less able to run fast or turn quickly. HIGH VALUE REWARDS Explore what makes your dog tick. Some dogs like food, some like toys, some likeTIDY UP praise. Use whatever it is that makes your dog happy as an immediate reward – so he knows instantly that he’s done something well and you are pleased with him. ENGL5057.tif ENGL5058.tif ENGL5059.tif REWARD THE GOOD It really is as simple as that! Far too often ENGL5051.tif ENGL5052.tifwe only notice our four-legged friendsENGL5053.tif when they’re doing something we don’t ﬁ nd acceptable. For dogs that crave your attention this is a sure way for them to 4 learn to repeat unacceptable behaviours.ENGL5048.tif ENGL5049.tif ENGL5050.tif ACTIVITY TOYS Ignore the ‘bad’ and reward the good. Always notice your dog’s good behaviour, Place treats in some of the spaces in a interact with them at these times and cup cake or muffin tray, then put a ball you’ll soon notice improved behaviour. ENGL5048.tif ENGL5049.tif ENGL5050.tif on top to cover each slot. Your dog will MAKE TIME FOR YOUR DOG not only have great fun working out Even small periods of time amount to a where the treats are hidden he will huge difference to your dog. Turn the time also get to enjoy having so many when you go to boil the kettle, or when the balls to play with afterwards. adverts come on TV, into practice and education time for your dog. Doing little and often like this is the best way for your ENGL5054.tif ENGL5055.tifdog to learn new things. ENGL5056.tif ROUTINE Re-examine your dog’s routine. Are they getting everything they need on a daily *Teach your dog to Scent games basis for an enriched life? Physical ENGL5051.tifexercise, put their toys away ENGL5052.tif ENGL5053.tif Dogs experience their world quality time with you, time to rest, time to in a basket play, and time to explore the world they primarily through scent, so live in and exercise their brain. 5tapping into this natural instinct is MAKE IT FUN ENGL5051.tif ENGL5052.tif ENGL5053.tif one of the best ways to stimulate their Having fun helps stimulate your dog’s mind, minds. Try hiding their food bowl in a strengthening the bond between you. That different place – you can in turn can encourage good mental health even include the and well-being for both of you. garden if you have one. They’ll love snifﬁ ng aboutENGL5057.tif in ENGL5058.tif ENGL5059.tif the bushes to locate Your dog will enjoy their dinner. experiencing a new location

ENGL5054.tif ENGL5055.tif ENGL5056.tif NEW PLACES Simply taking a different route ENGL5054.tif ENGL5055.tif ENGL5056.tif or walking in a new location will provide your dog with new scents,6 sights and sounds. If your dog is well-behaved on the lead you might also try taking him somewhere dog-friendly like your local garden centre or even to The Grange, our wonderful new facility in Buckinghamshire, where you can be sure of a dog-friendly welcome, lunch ENGL5057.tif ENGL5058.tif ENGL5059.tif and a secure walk.

ENGL5057.tif ENGL5058.tif ENGL5059.tif www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 21 Kids Contact us! corner TALL TAILS Send all your funny Meet the winners of our Young Person’s captions, stories and pictures to: kidscorner Hearing Dog of the Year award, plus @hearingdogs.org.uk build your dog a treat dispenser!

Singing in sign language Make it! Students raise £60 to sponsor puppy Yappie days! Exercise your dog’s brain with this fun treat dispenser! STUDENTS AT Ysgol Bryn Elian High School in Wales have donated £60 to Hearing Dogs, raised through You need Remove the fl ap from front of the weight performing songs in British Sign Empty six-bottle wine the box and keep (if but make sure the Language (BSL). box, with top fl ap the fl ap is perforated bottle can still spin The students spent several weeks (or a piece of card simply tear). – fi x with sticky being taught how songs are translated the same width and Stand the box on the tape (4) to stop the into BSL by Maggie McManus, who runs about 1.5cm deeper) small solid end, cut a treats falling into the school’s Inclusion Centre and is a Empty plastic milk section as shown, fold the back of the box. BSL student. They were accompanied bottle (568ml) with to the back and fi x Put some small by fellow BSL student Eryl Restall, who handle with sticky tape (1). treats in, test the sings and signs. 26cm length of dowel Position the box (2) spin – then let your Maggie said: “The students have wood (8mm to 12mm and put the weight at dog have a go! thoroughly enjoyed the learning process diameter) or similar the back. If the bottle neck and are very keen to become more ‘deaf Large stone or Get ready to thread is too small, ask an aware’. This has been enhanced by them ½ brick for weight the handle of the dry adult to cut off the meeting Angela Davies and her hearing Sticky tape (gaffer or milk bottle onto the threaded part with dog Dasher.” duct tape is ideal) dowel wood a pair of scissors. The school’s donation has been used Scissors With the bottle Refi ne your to sponsor hearing dog puppy Juno, handle towards the design by stuffi ng who the students have already taken to Method inside, push the dowel newspaper padding their hearts. Recycle the milk through (3) or fi x to into each side and bottle top. Wash the the top corners with then cover with a empty bottle, rinse tape, as in photo. double thickness and leave to dry. Use the saved fl ap sheet so it looks or piece of card in smooth and neat! Cut 1 2 3 4

Please send us your photos: [email protected] Designed by volunteer Richard Gamwell

22 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk KIDS CORNER

WINNER: Shake paws with… “I feel safe YOUNG PERSON’S HEARING DOG with Varley” OF THE YEAR Meet Daniel and AWARD Varley, winners of our Young Person’s Hearing Dog of the Year award

FROM THE MOMENT Daniel Jillings met hearing dog Varley, it was clear VARLEY that the pair had a very special connection. Now they have won the Favourite food: I’m a Young Person’s Hearing Dog of the Labrador so I will eat anything! In the summer, Year award, presented by HRH The I like treats frozen in ice Princess Royal. Loves: I love playing ball Life had been tough for 11-year- and carrying around my old Daniel before the arrival of cuddly teddies. I love Varley. Not being able to hear the Varley makes playing in the sea and Daniel feel jumping over the waves comforting sounds of his family or the confi dent TV made him feel very anxious and (usually with a ball in my mouth) scared at bedtime. Hates: Waiting for dinner. “I couldn’t sleep when my mum and Also, I don’t like it when I brothers were downstairs,” he says. “In the morning, Varley jumps on have my paws checked as “It was really awful.” the bed to wake me up,” says Daniel. my feet are ticklish! The communication barrier also “Sometimes, if I’m really lazy and don’t Favourite walk: I love my made it hard for Daniel to make friends. open my eyes, he’ll sit on top of me walks on the beach, I can “I didn’t feel confi dent,” he says. until I get up!” chase my ball, paddle in the “I didn’t have hearing aids or cochlear The biggest difference, though, is sea and dig implants, so people couldn’t tell I had that Daniel now has the confi dence to Likes to sleep: I like to sleep hearing problems.” live his life to the full. anywhere but at night I sleep beside Daniel’s bed Daniel’s mum Ann says she couldn’t “Having Varley has been a really Favourite toy or game: believe the change in Daniel after positive experience,” he says. “I feel I love playing ball and one Varley arrived. safe as I don’t have to worry about of my superpowers is being “It was amazing,” she says. “Within there not being anybody there. I feel able to fi nd balls wherever two nights, his sleep had improved.” happy… and very proud of him.” I go, I can sniff them out The relationship between Daniel and Ann adds: “Thanks to Varley I see a from miles away! Varley is one of mutual respect and better future for Daniel. Their bond is Is best friends with: Daniel. trust but they also share the same light- so strong – wherever Daniel goes Varley He looks after me and I look after him. hearted sense of fun. follows. He’s really blossomed.”

Daniel with Varley and his mum, Ann Paw-some puns! What’s a dog’s favourite pizza topping? Pupperoni! (Thanks to four-year-old Niamh Smith)

Why did the dog cross the road? To get to the barking lot! What is a dog’s favourite city? New Yorkie!

STAY IN TOUCH: twitter.com/HearingDogs facebook.com/hearingdogs www.hearingdogs.org.uk

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 23 FUNDRAISING CAN YOU HELP? Could your company make Hearing Dogs its Charity of the Year? Email: jo.wengler@ Making a hearingdogs.org.uk difference We would not be able to continue helping deaf people lead full and happy lives SPECSAVERS Raised: without the support of our corporate partners Specsavers is one of over our longest continuous £75,000 corporate relationships. Raised: This year, as one of its very year, businesses fundraising activities, Specsavers big and small choose over stores nationwide have been inviting to support us. Without £13,000 customers to ‘Paws for Coffee’ in Ethem, we would not be support of the Charity. A number of able to continue our life-changing stores are also sponsoring a hearing work. Here are what some of our dog puppy. corporate partners are doing to help the Charity…

VIRBAC The team at We would like to thank Virbac, a Wagging Tails worldwide animal health company, for DAF TRUCKS LTD sponsoring our fourth Great British Dog We are delighted that DAF Trucks has Walk, which promises to attract more WAGGING TAILS chosen to support us again this year. walkers and dogs than ever before. To Wagging Tails is a home-from-home dog Last year its Truckfest Tour was a huge find out how you can join in, please go boarding company, which provides dog success, raising £5,000 for Hearing to: www.greatbritishdogwalk.org owners with an alternative to traditional Dogs. This year’s tour, which begins in kennels. Wagging Tails has been Peterborough on 6 May and finishes in amazing, raising over £13,000 as well as Knutsford on 6 September, promises to sponsoring hearing dog puppy, Neve. be just as popular. Wagging Tails founders, Jim and Lisa Suswain, explained: “We feel it’s vitally Raised: important to not only raise money for £5,000 Hearing Dogs but also to help raise awareness of the superb work done by the Charity and the impact it has on recipients’ lives.” Raised: £24,000 Partner with us There are many great opportunities for you and CARMICHAELUK your company to partner with A big thank you to CarmichaelUK – a ROYAL CANIN us. For more information, email leading recruitment company that We’re delighted to again be working [email protected] specialises in placing candidates in with pet food specialist Royal Canin – or call 01844 340740. construction and civil engineering jobs from this year’s Crufts to many other – for raising approximately £24,000 future events, including promoting the Thank you also to: Broadway Deli, since 2016. This has enabled it to Great British Dog Walk. Worcestershire; Sainsbury’s, name its second hearing dog puppy, Amblecote, West Midlands; The Cooper. Hearing Care Centre, Ipswich; Taylor Wimpey, South Midlands; Homesitters Ltd, Buckinghamshire

24 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk FUNDRAISING

How you can Fun fundraising! help locally… Being part of the Hearing Dogs community There are many ways you can get involved with Hearing Dogs in your is all about having a great time with area, from holding a small fundraising event to becoming a registered like-minded local people, while raising volunteer. Simply give one of us a call or drop us an email. You’ll ﬁ nd our contact money for a great cause numbers in the list below.

Midlands: Vicky Ryan, 07824 329063 [email protected] eing kind and having fun are a way of life for Gill Yeates, South East and South West London: B who heads our team of nine Nicholas Orpin, 07917 170122 community fundraising managers. [email protected] “I’ve worked with this fabulous Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridge charity for 10 years, starting as a and North East London: community fundraiser for Hearing Rachel Clarke, 07769 901291 Dogs in East Anglia,” explains Gill, our [email protected] Cambridge-based national fundraising Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, manager. “I’ve always said if it doesn’t Gill supports her team at some of Nottinghamshire and North East make you feel good or make a difference their varied and community driven England: Lucy Ward, then it’s not worth doing. And in my fundraising events across the UK 01759 322255 / 07769 901292 job I get to do both. It’s wonderful that [email protected] being friendly and kind-hearted are Scotland: Lisa Armstrong, just as important to the success of my 07436 542544 / lisa.armstrong@ fundraising role as working hard and hearingdogs.org.uk good communication. “My father was deaf and I grew up North West England, North Wales with a variety of dogs in our household and Northern Ireland: so when I was offered the job at Hearing Sophie Meadows, 07769 901297 [email protected] Northern Home Counties and North West London: Michelle Sapwell, 07769 901305 Dogs I was over the moon. I love my job. [email protected] I have an excellent team and really enjoy Mid-West England and South Wales: working with people. Lauren Maher, 07769 901281 What does the community [email protected] fundraising team do? Cambridgeshire and South “Between us the community fundraising Lincolnshire (CB6 CB7 and PE team is responsible for raising £1 million postcodes only): Gill Yeates, 07824 a year for Hearing Dogs. To achieve 453319 / [email protected] this we offer support, ideas, advice and South East London, Sussex and Kent: materials to local individuals, groups, Emily Lyle, 07435 964466 schools or businesses who want to raise [email protected] funds for the Charity. “We like to think we put the FUN into National fundraising fundraising and I think we do pretty well manager Gill Yeates from the lovely feedback we get within our communities! We’re a really friendly, committed bunch and all of us love meeting and getting to know new people. I’ve made so many good friends through Hearing Dogs and I think everyone involved feels the same way. We promise a warm welcome, plus there’s usually a nice cup of tea or coffee to be had and maybe even a waggy tail to go with it – and what could be lovelier than that!”

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 25 BREED PROFILE

DID YOU KNOW? Cockapoos are the nation’s favourite mixed breed

Clever Cockapoos Sociable, active and hardworking, Cockapoos make top hearing dogs

e already know Spaniels, some more like Poodles. This gives Poodles and us a diverse range of wonderful dogs and Quick facts Spaniels make enables us to create the perfect match for great hearing each hearing dog applicant. TOP DOG dogs because both We breed Cockapoos from Spaniels The Cockapoo (Cocker Spaniel W cross Poodle) wins the nation’s breeds are inherently sociable, active and and Poodles with excellent health and love working. The Spaniel is a gundog, temperaments meaning the puppies are heart as the favourite mixed breed – topping a list of specifically bred to flush game out of genetically destined to be sociable and 717 different cross breeds – the dense brush. They love to hunt for active with a love for training. according to Guide Dogs’ latest toys and play retrieve games. They Hearing dog Waffle embodies all these Great British Dog Survey of over also really enjoy interaction with their qualities and helped to transform the life of 36,000 people handlers and are usually quite persistent Sarah Khanzadeh. Sarah, 14, is profoundly Cockapoos are not recognised when given a challenge. deaf following CMV infection and lacked by the Kennel Club as a true The Poodle was also bred to retrieve, confidence – until Waffle came along. Sarah breed – although all dog owners but from water. They are active, highly says: “I don’t mind if Waffle is typical of a can register their dogs with the Kennel Club intelligent, love problem-solving and need Spaniel or a Poodle, she is unique and I love Cockapoos are very popular in physical and mental stimulation to channel her for who she is. She is outgoing, friendly, the UK with 146,480 internet their cheeky, fun personalities. loving and active. When I get sad she gets searches every month. When you cross these two fantastic sad too; she will come and sit next to me, so breeds, you’d expect to get a dog that fits I can stroke her until we both feel better. neatly in between. This is sometimes the “I feel really lucky and when I’m with her case, but what usually happens is you get a there’s nothing I can’t do. When I’m with spectrum of personalities, some more like her, I feel brave.”

I feel really lucky and when I’m with her there’s nothing I can’t do

26 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk How Waffle measures up probably like be abigfluffy tennisball!” every month–ifwedidn’tclipped shewould shegetsbathed and thingbecause good whichisa andpampered likes groomed tobe her hairandshedoesn’t smellat all.Waffle still give Waffl e acuddle.Shedoesn’t shed “I like howifyou’re allergictodogsyou can Hardly sheds fullofenergy.”and are so each other, quickly theway theyjoininso –Ithinktheyunderstand other Cockapoos animals. Mostofallsheloves playing with humansandother friendly withboth “Waffl withherfamily.e loves being Sheis everyone andaccepts Affectionate very proud ofher.” brings happinesswherever I’m shegoes. atShe isvery following and good commands “Waffl clever aswellgorgeous. e issuper train to Intelligent andeasy mixed breed characteristics of the Cockapoo hearing dog Waffle’s character compares with the We asked 14-year-old Sarah Khanzadeh how her www.hearingdogs.org.uk especially Sarah! especially Sarah! everyone smile– Waffl e makes one she will solve itinaminute.”one shewillsolve quick; ifIgive –sheisso heranew solving Waffl very curiousandlovese isalso puzzle trails leftbyallthewildlifethat live there. totheground andfollowsher nose thescent where sheputs we gowalkinginthewoods “Waffl when e loves herexercise –especially love problem-solving Active, highlyintelligent and to say hello.” Wafflnoticed e, theyalways smileandwant asthey’ve assoon faces onpeople’s see happy. Whenwe’re out andabout you can have andsheis.Shemakes everybody “My mum says Waffle isanabsolute joyto around them everyone to that spreads zestforlife An infectious 01844 348129 01844 [email protected] email Please dogs. hearing and puppies our train and for care help to volunteers more need We urgently Can you help? or call BREED PROFILE BREED

Shakepaws with… 2018 Spring especially if it’sespecially green! – ball atennis loves she and football playing loves she park, the in and-seek Waffl hide- playing e loves next to my bed to next woods the in walks long for go we where Park Black loves super-excited! gets She van. ice-cream the of sound the to me alert to herself taught –she comes van ice-cream the when especially me for working WAFFLE fl treats avoured Favourite toy or game: game: or toy Favourite Me! Me! with: friends best Is In her bed, bed, In her sleep: to Likes fle f a Favourite walk: W Hates: WafflLoves: e loves food: Favourite Getting wet! Getting FAVOUR Chicken Chicken Photo: Nicky Stock 27 Ask the Meet the expert

experts DR LORRAINE GAILEY Dr Lorraine Gailey explains the technology was Hearing Link’s CEO and, following its merger with Hearing Dogs, is now behind hearing loops and why they help chief operating ofﬁ cer at Hearing Link within the people with hearing aids feel more included merged organisation

ampliﬁ er and a loop of wire, which are DID YOU typically installed behind the counter. KNOW? The signal is intended only to be audible Hearing Dogs and for around 1.5m from the loop and it can Hearing Link merged be improved by moving your head closer, in July, although both or sometimes tilting it a little, or asking charities will maintain the staff member to move their mouth distinct identities closer to the microphone.

A room loop 2 (meetings, events, places of worship) The technical details of a room or perimeter loop can be quite intricate, but essentially they are designed to connect you directly to a sound source no matter how far away you are from the person speaking.

Presenter with a Presentation A counter loop wireless handheld on screen helps with one-to- microphone or one communication ﬁ tted with a wireless lapel microphone

What is a hearing loop? A counter loop A hearing loop, sometimes called an 1 (shop counters, banks, intercoms) audio induction loop, is a special type of This system helps with one-to-one sound system that supports people with communication in noisy environments. hearing aids. The hearing loop provides The loop captures and amplifi es the a magnetic wireless signal that is picked staff member’s voice with a microphone up by the hearing aid when it is set to ‘T’ and transmits the sound using a special (Telecoil) setting or programme. Audience Induction loop aerial installed around entire room Magnetic fi eld thrown from How does a loop work? induction loop By reducing the distance and A microphone picks up the spoken word; aerial by cutting out background noise, an amplifi er then processes the signal, reverberation and acoustical distortion which is sent through a loop cable. This Staff caused by a building’s architecture, they can be a counter loop at a service counter, improve your hearing experience. With Aerial a wire placed around the perimeter of installed good mapping techniques, ‘cold spots’ a meeting room, or a small loop worn under can be addressed to ensure that the counter out around the neck. The cable acts as an of sight loop system covers 100 per cent of the antenna radiating the magnetic signal venue, as we have done at The Grange Customer directly to the hearing aid. There are Label notifying that Restaurant. There is no limit to how an induction facility is different types of hearing loops available. installed and available many people can use this sort of loop

28 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk ASK THE EXPERTS

at the same time. Some hearing loops are ﬁ xed into the building, and some are portable, which means a non-looped room can be made hearing accessible.

Personal listeners 3 These operate on the same principle as counter and room loops, but you can carry them around with you. You give the microphone to the person you want to hear, and you wear a small loop around your neck that contains the receiver. You can buy personal listeners from the new Hearing Hub at The Grange and online at shop.hearinglink.org How do I use a hearing loop? You simply switch your hearing aid to the relevant ‘T’ setting or select the loop programme. Some hearing aids do this Advice and support will be on offer automatically. Your audiologist can help at The Hearing Hub at The Grange. if you are unsure. Advice and support will The symbol (right) indicates the presence of a hearing loop also be offered at The Hearing Hub at The Grange. Why are hearing loops Who can use a hearing loop? What do I do if it’s not important? Whether using a counter loop, room working, or I can’t access it? With hearing loops in more public loop or personal listener, you need You should inform a member of staff buildings and venues, which are both a hearing aid or cochlear implant who will then get the loop checked. If well signposted and properly maintained, that has an activated telecoil. Older the service provider does not provide the together with staff who understand their hearing aids have a T switch for this. appropriate equipment or they do not purpose and value, hearing aid users Modern digital aids need to have the keep it maintained properly, they could can access the conversations they want loop programme activated by your be in breach of the Equality Act and be to. This essential piece of technology audiologist, who can offer advice open to legal action. improves the listening experience for and support, as can volunteers in The millions of people in the UK who use Hearing Hub. What is the Let’s Hear hearing aids or implantable devices. campaign? They are inconspicuous, and help How do I know if there is a Hearing Link’s Let’s Hear campaign is a people hear more easily by cutting out loop installed? community-driven campaign to enhance unwanted background noise when they Most public buildings and venues will hearing in public places. It empowers detect a magnetic ﬁ eld and creating include clear signs to show if a hearing local people everywhere to improve clearer sound. loop is available. hearing experiences for themselves, in their own communities. Volunteers work as hearing loop checkers, visiting public buildings and LET’S HEAR RESULTS AT A GLANCE businesses in their local towns to check Provision of hearing loops Quality ratings What our volunteers said loop availability and quality. The diagram to the left is an example 76% “The staff at the pharmacy Loop had very basic knowledge, of the outcomes in one town where installed volunteers checked over 500 loops. 2.5 out of 5 (average) but had never used the Quality of hearing loop installed hearing loop before.” 24% no loop installed Find out more “Very helpful staff who Get involved in this campaign and 2.6 out of 5 (average) knew how to work the loop help improve the provision of hearing Of 556 loops installed, Quality of staff knowledge of loops and the mic.” loops in your local area by joining the our volunteers found Hearing Link Let’s Hear Campaign. To 43% were poor quality “Frustrating! The loop was ﬁ nd out more go to: www.hearinglink. 14% were barely adequate 2.8 out of 5 (average) not working despite signage org/lets-hear. Learn more about 43% were satisfactory Quality of signage on display being displayed.” hearing loops: www.hearinglink.org/ living/loops-equipment

STAY IN TOUCH: twitter.com/HearingLink facebook.com/hearinglink www.hearinglink.org.uk

www.hearingdogs.org.uk Spring 2018 FAVOUR 29 DID YOU KNOW? Before her acting career took off, Stephanie planned to teach deaf children how to dance

Close-up with... STEPHANIE BEACHAM Born on 28 February 1947 in Barnet, Hertfordshire, Stephanie trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. Stephanie was a founder member of the Liverpool Everyman, worked for the Royal Shakespeare Company with Jeremy Irons and the National Theatre with Ian McKellen. She co-starred in ﬁ lms with Marlon Brando and Ava Gardner but she is perhaps best known for her work in Hollywood soaps as Sable Colby in The Colbys and Dynasty. This year she will appear in the Judy Geeson Judy BBC’s third series of The Real Marigold Hotel. Photo:

30 FAVOUR Spring 2018 www.hearingdogs.org.uk CELEBRITY AMBASSADOR Paws for coffee... Actress and Hearing Dogs ambassador Stephanie Beacham on why being deaf has never held her back

ea or coffee? Did deafness affect your childhood? I like one brilliant cup of coffee Enormously. I didn’t realise until quite a day. It has to be a really good recently how lonely and solitary a lot of my blend. After that, it’s tea, tea, childhood was. I couldn’t take the confusion T tea, tea, tea – any excuse and of noise so I’d sometimes say, ‘I don’t feel I’ll put the kettle on! well’ so I could go and sit quietly in the library with the stuffed birds. How did you first get involved with Hearing Dogs? How has deafness impacted on your I remember visiting the Hearing Dogs career? Not at all. I know everybody’s lines centre to see how they’re trained. I thought as well as my own. They stage a scene to He erected a tomb in memory of his dog and this is just so brilliant, because, if people show my right profile because I always need on it is the most moving tribute to his loyal want to feel pure unconditional love in their to be on the right of anybody I’m acting friend: ‘…who possessed Beauty without lives, a dog wants nothing more than to give with. A cameraman once said to me, ‘You Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage it – if the dog is also clever and helpful, well know your left profile is just as good as your without Ferocity, and all the virtues of Man it’s a match made in heaven. right!’ I said, ‘Yes, but then I can’t hear!’ without his Vices…’ – beautiful.

What is it about the Charity that Has your deafness ever caused problems? What are you most proud of? inspires you to support it? People have thought I’m a snob and a snoot I’ve never allowed deafness to be an excuse The fact that deaf people who would be and unfriendly and unreliable – and I’m for not doing something. lonely are no longer lonely. People who none of those. One day I’d say hello and were thinking their life should end have another day I wouldn’t reply. You can say, Tell us about your two dogs… found friendship in a hearing dog, and ‘I’m so sorry, I’m deaf’ but people forget. Nutrina is a Jack Russell cross Shi Tsu. We that has helped them rediscover their met her as a newborn and that was it, we value in the world. What’s hardest about being deaf? were in love. Sienna was almost dead when It would be good if I didn’t have to keep we found her by the road while visiting hopping to the right of everybody. friends in Texas. We got her to a vet and a Sometimes people make a joke and say week later, when I called in to check on her She hopped ‘alright granny’. Some just shout. Being progress, she hopped straight into my Louis straight into my shouted at is the worst thing. Vuitton! No fool this one. So back she came to Hollywood with us. Louis Vuitton What’s your top tip to other deaf people coping in social situations? What games do your dogs enjoy? Let people know. It’s so much better that They have numerous soft toys between What was the cause of your deafness? people understand a) you’re not stupid, and them. Where’s monkey Nutrina? Go get My mother had chickenpox during b) that it’s not personal if you have to cut monkey! No, she doesn’t want to get pregnancy. I’m incredibly lucky to only be the conversation short. monkey because it’s much more fun to lie deaf in one ear. I’ve no hearing at all on the on a clean pile of laundry – especially right. My left ear has 80 per cent hearing. Who would you choose to go on a when you’ve got filthy feet and are covered Far away and near is all the same. It’s all fantasy dog walk with? in leaves! They’re frightful – and I love just a wall of sound. Lord Byron and his beloved dog Boatswain. them so much.