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HearingSpring 2016 Timeswww.hearingtimes.co.uk Disabled children miss out on play opportunities Deaf community champions celebrated vital to their development, at RAD 175th Birthday Honours Awards report finds Members of the Deaf community, along with friends, family and colleagues, were out in force on 11 February at the A report presented by Duncan awards ceremony held to mark the 175th anniversary of the Royal Association for Deaf people (RAD) Blunkett, from the national deafblind charity, Sense, revealed the severe More than 370 nominees, sponsors, A B restrictions facing disabled children RAD employees and guests gathered at in accessing play The Millennium Hotel in Grosvenor Place, London, to celebrate Deaf history, language and culture and applaud some of the community’s most upstanding figures, with nine categories of awards being presented by actress, comedian and author Helen Lederer.

The award for Best Deaf business (sponsored by Whybrow Chartered C Surveyors) went to Signworld, for its work G supporting both learners and teachers of British Sign Language (BSL) with a dedicated Lord Blunkett (L) launched the inquiry with national disability charity Sense website – which demonstrates the various regional variations of BSL, not only resulting F The report identifies failings at every level in benefits to those teaching and learning it, that result in disabled children missing out but also helping to record and preserve the D on play opportunities that are vital to their language. In addition, Hear First Training and emotional, social and physical development. Consultancy, and Flashing Lights were highly commended. A lack of attention by government, (A) Over 370 people attended the insufficient funding at a local level and Jackie Wan, a profoundly Deaf BSL user award ceremony (B) Medway Deaf negative attitudes towards disabled children and qualified Psychiatric Nurse, was named Club - Most innovative Deaf club (C) London Borough of Islington - Most E and their families are all barriers highlighted Best Deaf role model, for her professionalism accesible mainstream service (D) in the report. and dedication as part of the Deaf Adult Lillian Lawson - Most outstanding Community Team (DACT), working contribution made to the Deaf community (E) Living Options - Best The report calls for urgent action to alongside local mental health teams. Highly employer of Deaf people (F) Jackie Wan - Best address these inequalities and to enable the commended were Dr Sarah Powell, and Deaf role model (G) DCAL - Most significant Prime Minister to deliver on his recent call to Alric Marasek, who also received a special research contribution to Deaf studies improve the “life chances” of all children. commendation for his positive attitude. Lilian Lawson, one of the UK’s leading Due to be launched in Parliament this Best employer of Deaf people (sponsored Deaf campaigners, was named the winner afternoon, the report follows a three month by Griffin Chapman Chartered Accountants) of Most outstanding contribution made to the commended were St Johns Deaf Club, who public inquiry into the provision of play was awarded to Living Options Devon, a Deaf community (sponsored by Fisher Jones received a special commendation for their opportunities for disabled children aged 0-5 user-led organisation which ensures that Greenwood). diverse activities, and Romford Deaf Seniors with multiple needs in England and Wales. disabled and Deaf people are empowered Lunch Club. Chaired by former Secretary of State for to live the lives they choose – 80% of the In 2005, Lilian was the first Deaf person Education and Employment, Lord Blunkett, organisation’s Trustees and volunteers, and in Scotland to achieve the OBE, and she The award for the Most significant research the inquiry was established in response over 50% of its staff, are disabled or Deaf. was also instrumental in achieving legal contribution to Deaf studies was won by the to parents’ concern that they had fewer Also highly commended were City Lit and recognition for BSL in Scotland, which Deafness Cognition and Language (DCAL) opportunities to access play services and SignHealth. occurred with the passing of the BSL Bill in Research Centre, for its research into the settings than families with non-disabled 2015. In addition, Dr Barry Wright and Dr relationship between language, executive children. The award for Most accessible mainstream Terry Riley were highly commended. function and wellbeing in the aging Deaf services went to the London Borough of community, including whether an earlier age Chair of the Play Inquiry, Lord Blunkett, Islington, where the Council has been Most innovative Deaf Club was of BSL acquisition impacts on an individual’s said, “We know that play is vitally important proactive in ensuring that the diverse needs awarded to Medway Deaf Club, for their ability to plan, be flexible in problem solving, for children with multiple needs and of its Deaf residents have been identified and diverse programme of activities, growing or inhibit responses when necessary. their families, bringing a wide range of met within both mainstream and specialist membership, and forward-thinking approach SignHealth received a special commendation developmental and emotional benefits. services. In addition, the HMRC Customer – their 125 members can not only enjoy for their Sick Of It study, while the Social However, our inquiry found that all too often and Stakeholder team, Team Marlborough weekly social meetings, but events ranging Research with Deaf People BSL IAPT Project the parents of children with multiple-needs Court and UK Power Networks were all from comedy nights to bingo, pool matches, Team was also highly commended. highly commended. and a week-long club holiday. Also highly Continued on page 6 Continued on page 2

If you no longer wish to recieve the newspaper, please return it to Hearing Times C.I.C. | The Lansbury Estate | 102 Lower Guildford Road | Woking | Surrey | GU21 2EP 2 News Hearing Times Spring 2016 Early exposure to signing has THE NEWS : IN BRIEF benefits in adulthood, US study finds Deaf children who learn to sign early may boost their brainpower in ways Eurosafe launches innovative hearing protection training unrelated to language Developed in partnership with Honeywell Safety Products, the course is designed to “Most deaf children are born to hearing enable Eurosafe’s members to add value to their business and help their customers find families, and most hearing parents do not the best hearing protection solutions. sign with their newborn deaf children,” clinical neuropsychologist Peter Hauser, who is Chairman of Hearing Link wins Points of Light award deaf, explained at the annual meeting of the Nigel Williams, 59, was inspired to support adults with hearing loss and their families American Association for the Advancement after becoming deaf at the age of 16, due to meningitis. Nigel has volunteered at Hearing of Science. Link for over 12 years and, under his steer as chairman, the charity has grown and “The deaf children, as a consequence, developed ways of helping all those who rely on them. Andy Haworth have very limited exposure to sign language,” US study suggests missing out on early sign Lost feminist play finally hits Irish stage signed Hauser, of Rochester Institute of language acquisition can have lifelong impacts A play rejected by the Abbey Theatre in 1942 and then lost for several decades is to be Technology in New York. staged in Ireland this year. Wife to James Whelan, by the Waterford playwright Teresa Deevy, depicts violence against a woman, and features several opinionated female That paucity of input derails not only normal This result “shows that it’s something that’s characters. language development, but other aspects still there in adulthood,” said psychologist and of mental performance, too, Hauser’s new language expert Jenny Singleton of Georgia Scottish Gov to recruit Deaf BSL users to BSL National Advisory Group research suggests. He and colleagues studied Institute of Technology in Atlanta. Two places on the group will be reserved for Deafblind people who use BSL, and two will executive function — high-level mental effort be for young Deaf people who use BSL. An eleventh place will go to the hearing parent that involves controlling attention, impulses Earlier work by Singleton examined of a Deaf child, and nine places will be taken by public bodies who are subject to the and emotions — by having 115 deaf children classrooms of deaf children, some exposed new legislation. draw lines between circles with sequential to signing from birth and some who learned numbers. The kids had to alternate colours to sign later. The late signers required more School kids take on mini-marathon for deaf charity, following head’s example of circles, a tricky task because it required redirection to follow signed conversations, The pupils at Baschurch Primary School near Shrewsbury will try to run as many 0.1 resisting the urge to connect circles of the she and colleagues found. “We now have a mile laps around the school grounds as possible in one afternoon. They will count up same colour. preponderance of evidence to suggest that if the number of laps completed and work out how many marathon miles they have all run they have not acquired language early, there together, raising funds and awareness for deafness charity Signal. Compared with children exposed to signing can be lifelong impacts,” she says. from birth, children who didn’t learn to sign Lipreading group raise £477 at quiz night until around age 3 took about 17 seconds That means that families of deaf children All funds raised through the quiz night will support Banbridge Lipreading Group which longer to connect the dots, Hauser reported. who receive cochlear implants shouldn’t was established in 2015 by Rathfriland residents Les and Ramona Williams after they What’s more, the late signers don’t seem to necessarily abandon attempts to sign, she discovered there were no classes in the community offering lipreading for people with ever catch up. In similar tests of 40 adults, says. If a child doesn’t succeed with the hearing loss. native signers beat the times of late signers implant, then signing would still ensure that by 23 seconds. the child has a language to use. Africa Oyé festival to film sign language message Africa Oyé had on-stage interpreters for the first time last year, and want to take their Continued from front page accessibly one step further this year and have a message recorded in sign language (BSL, ISL and possibly ASL) ahead of the event, that can be shown online for the deaf Deaf community champions celebrated at community. RAD 175th Birthday Honours Awards

Officer steps in to help deaf teen who had his bike stolen The Deaf Museum and Archive Curatorial “We’re delighted to have enjoyed such a Maciej Uniatowski, who communicates through sign language, had his bike stolen from Team took home the accolade for the wonderful celebration of Deaf language, the school on the October 14 2015 and was his only means of transport to and from Preservation of Deaf history and culture culture and history to mark our 175th home. West Yorkshire Police Safer Schools Officer, PC Alex Potter heard about the (sponsored by Bonhams), for their dedication anniversary year,” said Toby Burton, Chair of situation and stepped in to help with a new bike from Child Victims of Crime charity to enlightening visitors about Deaf History at the Board of Trustees, RAD. Christmas gifts. The Deaf Museum and Archive – the only one of its kind in the UK. The British Deaf “We received so many nominations for the Volunteers required: audiologist-delivered psychological intervention for tinnitus Association (BDA) and Peter Brown, of City RAD Birthday Honours Awards, and all our This study involves completing a series of 3 questionnaires over a period of approximately Lit, were also highly commended. shortlisted nominees should be very proud 2 months and can be completed on a computer with Internet access. of their achievements in making it through If you are interested in getting involved, please send an email to Dean at Hotly contested by three very upstanding the verification process, as it was certainly [email protected] to express your interest. contenders, The young person award rigorous, and the competition was fierce – (sponsored by Jimmy’s Farm) went to Ashley they’re all winners.” Kendall, for his commitment and dedication For daily news visit www.hearingtimes.co.uk to the Deaf community. “We’re very much indebted to all the organisations and individuals who helped Ashley may be best known by the wider make the event such a success,” added Dr public for his role presenting CBeebies’ Magic Jan Sheldon, Chief Executive, RAD. Contributors: Deafinitely Girly, James Mercer, Denise Muno, Violet Oliver, Guy Peppiatt, Hands, but his work on a variety of projects, Alfie Loki, Richard Apps, Sophia Gold, Murray Renton, Kirsty Dalgairns, Natalie Dibsdale, forums and workshops, as well as his place of “In particular I’d like to thank our headline Faye McGinn, Tessa Dawson, Dave Ruckham, Laura Grace, the board of the British Deaf Association, has sponsors City & Country, our category and inspired many young Deaf adults to become event sponsors, Bonhams – who ran the Hearing Times is protected by copyright. To reproduce articles featured in this issue, email your request to [email protected] more independent, confident and optimistic. silent auction throughout the evening – and also our performers and speakers, including Hearing Times is an independent newspaper, published four times per year. Highly commended were Finlay Maciver, Deaf musician Ruth Montgomery, Whybrows The newspaper is distributed throughout the United Kingdom to charities, ENT and who received a special commendation for CEO Ewan Dodds, City & Country Managing hearing therapy clinics, audiologists, hearing aid dispensers, care homes and schools and individual subscribers , reaching a readership of over 23,000. his positive attitude, and Ellen Parfitt, who Director Helen Moore, the inimitable Helen The contents of Hearing Times are copyrighted and no part may be reproduced in part received a special commendation for her Lederer, Ali and Klodi Acrobats, and Bond or whole without prior consent from the newspaper. amazing achievements in education, sport Street, whose music rounded off the evening.” The opinions expressed in articles, columns and adverts are those of the writer or and her career. advertiser and not necessarily those of Hearing Times C.I.C.. Hearing Times Spring 2016 News 3 Teacher wins award for new hockey signs Praise for committed staff at home PE teacher and hockey coach Wendy Russell has won Disability Sports Coach of the Year at the national Sports Coach UK Awards in Manchester for deaf on IoW The awards honour sports coaches and A rating of ‘Good’ from the Care Quality Commission (CQC) was achieved organisations that have demonstrated from an Isle of Wight care home’s staff outstanding success over the last 12 months and are among the most prestigious within The registered manager of Easthill Home the coaching community. for Deaf People, Ryde, paid tribute to the efforts of those who work there and the Wendy, who teaches at Steyning Grammar support from the charity which runs it. School, won her award for revolutionising the way deaf and hard of hearing young people In May, CQC inspectors had identified take part in hockey. This has been achieved breaches of five regulations and issued two by creating a hockey-specific sign language. Wendy Russell in action on the hockey pitch warning notices relating to the safety and care of residents and lack of quality assurance. Signing carols at Easthill Home for the Deaf are staff members, from left, Nicky Shepherd, The idea developed after she discovered This new hockey-specific sign language Clare Randall, Debbie Greenwood, Amber only 11.5 per cent of deaf young people has now been ratified by Remark and But the latest report, following a two-day Holbrook, Tiffany Hall, Jenny Shepherd, do sport outside of PE. The reason many endorsed by the National Deaf Children’s unannounced inspection in November, rated Sue Henesey and Hayley Sykes. Picture by Jennifer Burton gave for this was because they had to go to Society. It is now being rolled out for use it good in all areas of care. hearing clubs and a lot felt isolated because across the country. Inspectors communicated with profoundly they needed extra support and people did “When I arrived in June, the chief executive deaf residents using a British Sign Language not know how to interact with them. Wendy has also won the Sussex Sports of the charity had already given up six interpreter and were told they felt safe at the Award Sportivate Project of the Year and was months of her life to come here to get things Ryde home. Wendy wanted to set up a hockey club shortlisted in the top five for the Community back on track and things were certainly exclusively for deaf people so they could Award in The Sunday Times and Sky Sports already turning round,” said manager Nicky A family member said the home provided feel included and safe. She applied for News Sportswoman of the Year Awards. Shepherd. ‘a stimulating and secure environment and gained funding to run a Deaf Hockey She is an England Hockey Level 2 coach, for residents’ and staff were praised for Sportivate project in Brighton, the first deaf a regional hockey coach, an Active Sussex “We are so fortunate the staff here are so their caring ethos and for their expertise. hockey club in Britain. coach mentor and a Project 500 ambassador. committed and we have the charity, Sonus, Inspectors said they spoke fondly of the which may only be small but which provided people they supported and clearly knew She said, “The only sign I could find was Head teacher Nick Wergan said, “It is great big support. them well. for naming the actual sport hockey, so I to see the dedication of our fantastic staff needed to create 30 others that would allow being recognised – great teaching, alongside “It is great to know everyone is behind you One member said, “We’re looking after me quickly to not only explain what we were purposeful practice and self motivation, and our aim at the next inspection is definitely residents in a better way now and making doing and working on, but also how to give enables students to reach their full potential.” to be judged to be outstanding.” their lives more fulfilling.” feedback to the players.”

NDCS helps deaf young Why I think you should visit… people stay safe online The National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) has launched new resources to help deaf young people stay safe on the internet, as part of Safer Internet Day on 9 February 2016

The National Deaf Children’s Society have Children’s Society that they receive the right joined forces with Childnet International to information at school, so we have created create a raft of e-safety resources that aim at lesson plans for secondary school teachers encouraging deaf children and young people on issues such as sexting, social networking aged 11–16 to stay safe online. sites and cyberbullying as well as information for parents and a downloadable tips flyer for For the first time NDCS have created deaf young people. lesson plans for secondary school teachers on subjects of safe social networking, “We hope these tools will help deaf children cyberbullying and sexting, as well as a helpful and young people to stay safe and be smart webpage for parents and an information flyer online.” for young people. The theme of Safer Internet Day 2016 is Deaf children can miss out on informal 'Play your part for a better internet!' and learning, such as playground talk about hundreds of organisations get involved and Homework Diary Cover designed by Hannah Allen, Year 10 internet and social media use, and often use the day to promote the safe, responsible have lower literacy levels than other children and positive use of digital technology for their age. children and young people. … Mary Hare School !

This means that they might need extra National Deaf Children’s Society resources Primary School Open Day, Thursday, 21st April, 2016 help to use the internet safely, especially as available are: Secondary School Open Day, Bank Holiday Monday, 2nd May, 2016 information on privacy and safety features • a flyer for young people, How to Stay Safe Year 7 Entry Information Day, Friday, 30th September, 2016 can be difficult to understand. and Smart Online, which is available here or hard copies can be ordered from the To book a place or to arrange an individual visit, please contact Natalie Ross: Susan Daniels, Chief Executive from the helpline ([email protected] or 01635 244215) National Deaf Children’s Society said, “Deaf • a webpage for parents with tips on what or visit our website www.maryhareschool.org.uk/events children and young people are particularly they can do to keep their child safe online vulnerable to bullying both on and offline. • online safety lesson plans for secondary It is really important to the National Deaf school teachers. Securing the future of deaf children and young people 4 News Hearing Times Spring 2016 Campaigning teenager tells Prince Hertfordshire Police get deaf aware Hertfordshire Police are committed to improving deaf awareness across its William ‘I am deaf and proud’ whole force thanks to a unique partnership with Get Deaf Aware

A Wirral teenager awarded a prestigious honour for tireless campaigns on Get Deaf Aware, is provided by national Hertfordshire Police. We’ve worked closely issues affecting young deaf people joined the Duke of Cambridge for the deaf charity Signature to improve deaf with the force’s Police Link Officers for launch of an anti-bullying campaign awareness. The two have partnered Deaf people (PLOD) initiative to develop Bethany Eason, 19, was among a young to create a bespoke training package a programme that is especially useful to a group who spent time with Prince William specifically to benefit the Police force, using police force using relevant scenarios and when he visited Bourneville College in specific language and ‘real-life’ scenarios to language. Birmingham to see how people tackle demonstrate best practice. identity-based bullying in our schools and “The programme is designed to educate communities. Detective Superintendent Nathan Briant and encourage people to consider how a at Hertfordshire Police, said, “We are person’s deafness might affect their needs or The Duke was presented with five social committed to effectively communicating with how they react to a situation. A lot of time and action projects all of which had the goal of all of our users and this includes providing an effort has gone into creating this bespoke reducing bullying both on and offline and to Bethany, sitting to Prince William’s right, listens accessible and beneficial service for the deaf product and we are thrilled with the end result provide support to those suffering its negative to speaker at anti-bullying campaign session community. and very grateful for the help from PLOD too. consequences. a new light, understand their differences “Get Deaf Aware has created an informative “Improving services for the deaf community Bethany, whose campaigning earned the and see that difference is what makes us all and relevant training package specifically is always great news and we’re proud to be awarded the Princess Diana Trust award special. for police that show our work environment part of Hertfordshire Police force’s good for most courageous Citizen 2015, joined and it will help teams develop a better work.” fellow Diana Award holders and Anti-Bullying “HRH wrote down ‘I am a prince’. I wrote understanding and increase awareness Pro ambassadors for the awareness day in down ‘I am deaf and proud’ because that’s of deafness. We’re very pleased with the Get Deaf Aware is a national campaign to Birmingham. my difference and I have learned to accept results.” raise awareness and improve communication my difference.” with deaf people through increasing During the event, voice coach and anti- The online training sessions, which can be understanding and training. Get Deaf Aware bullying pro Ambassador Carrie Grant ran a Bethany has been an active member of the accessed and completed at anytime to fit in can also offer employers advice, guidance workshop called ‘Walk in our shoes’. It ended National Deaf Children’s Society, sitting on with the many work and shift patterns within and access to tailored training solutions with the Duke being presented with a collage its youth advisory board. She has also been the force, will be used by staff across the which have been created to meet UK Equality which he was photographed for earlier in the prominent in a campaign drawing attention to organisation, including serving police officers & Diversity laws. visit. unfairness of changes in the Disability Living and office-based staff. Allowance. For more information contact Bethany said, “It was such an amazing Lindsay Foster at Get Deaf Aware, [email protected] and an educational day. I was really proud to Beth’s campaigning has earned many said, “We are delighted to be working with or call 0191 383 7903 have been able to express my opinions even accolades, including two humanitarian citizen further by reaching out to others who’ve been awards from the Red Cross. bullied because of being who they are and reassuring them that being yourself is the After receiving the Diana Award last year, Thought-provoking video shows how most valuable thing in life. she continued, “Deafness is classed as a hard lipreading can be for deaf people hidden disability, but as far as I’m concerned Those people with no hearing difficulties rarely give any thought to what it “We all wrote down on a piece of paper it is not a disability. It’s not a disability unless would be like to have to rely on lipreading to communicate with others. But a what makes us different. Then each person you let it be a disability. new video makes people stop and think about it switched papers with another. “Deaf people should not have to fit in to A powerful video from National Geographic, at the Speed of Sound” by Rachel Kolb, “By taking on others’ differences as their society; society should fit in around deaf made by the Little Moving Pictures production who also narrates and stars in the piece. At own, the group began to see each other in people.” company, shows what life can be like for the end of the video Kolb tells viewers how those who use lipreading — and it’s definitely frustrating lipreading can be. not easy. “There have been times when I’ve The video begins with people speaking questioned why I even try to lipread, to wade clearly, as subtitles flash up on the screen. through this swamp, when I could just use Looking for a bigger pond? Gradually their words become quieter and sign language,” she says. “Some deaf people the subtitles blurred. choose to do just that. It’s like a different The footage also shows how different world — a world filled with rich expression Visit www.hearingtimes.co.uk/jobs & training situations, which for those who can hear and culture. When people sign they come for daily updated job listings pose no problem, make things even harder alive. But I know I want both worlds.” for lipreaders, such as nightclubs. Watch the video on Hearing Times’ website, The video is based on the essay “Seeing www.hearingtimes.co.uk/BSL videos

Hearing Link and BT launch booklet for people with hearing loss Called ‘Communication Choices: your hearing, your life’ the guide aims to support people through their hearing loss journey from diagnosis to where to get support in order to adjust to the challenges of living with hearing loss

Hearing Link features throughout, raising equipment and services available for people awareness of its free helpdesk service, with hearing loss including amplified phones, website and also featuring quotes and hearing loops and Next Generation Text pictures from a number of its volunteers. provided BT.

It also includes useful information about Visit www.hearinglink.org/a-guide-to- the types of assistive communications living-with-hearing-loss Hearing Times Spring 2016 News 5 The Tinnitus Clinic names Hearing Link its PROFILE: Association of Verbatim Speech-to-Text Reporters Charity of the Year We are the Association of Verbatim Speech-to-Text Reporters, and we provide Verbatim Speech-to-Text (STT), a service that could benefit nearly 11 million people - if only they knew about it! The UK-wide charity Hearing Link has been named Charity of the Year 2016 by the independent audiological What is Verbatim Speech-to-Text (STT)? Our members also provide remote Verbatim practice The Tinnitus Clinic It is a method of providing access to STT over the Internet as long as good audio communication for people who are deaf or and Internet connections are in place. Not all The Tinnitus Clinic has seven centres hard-of-hearing. It is also known as realtime situations are suitable for remote Verbatim based across the UK and throughout captioning, and in the US it is known as STT but this will be discussed when an 2016, it will support Hearing Link by raising CART. enquiry is made. awareness of its services for people with hearing loss, including its specialist support Out of the roughly 11 million people who All our members are UK based and highly programmes and helpdesk, and also help have some form of hearing loss in the UK, the experienced so can advise you on whether Sian Williams speaks, with STT appearing raise funds through different events at its number of BSL users is estimated at between onsite or remote STT will provide you with behind her giving a word-for-word translation branches. 50-150,000. That leaves a vast number the best service for your needs. of people that need access to everyday booking freelancers direct through AVSTTR’s Rekesh Patel BSc, MSc, CCC, RHAD, communication in the English language. Our organisation, the Association portal also ensures that you get the most Clinic Manager and Principal Audiologist at of Verbatim Speech-to-Text Reporters economical rates. The Government’s Access The Tinnitus Clinic said, “We wanted a charity With speeds of 200-250+wpm and a (AVSTTR - pronounced AV-STAR) was to Work scheme can provide funding to assist which provided real practical support to help minimum accuracy of 98%, unlike notetaking set up to provide networking and training with the cost for those in work, or for those people who are living with hearing loss and and respeaking where a précis is given, opportunities for freelance Verbatim Speech- attending interviews. tinnitus and we chose Hearing Link.” Verbatim STT is the only method available to-Text Reporters but also to raise awareness that provides a word-for-word translation of the service among the public. The majority To book a VSTTR please visit Hearing Link is a UK charity active in of what is being said, and also includes of our members are registered with NRCPD www.avsttr.org.uk. For more information, England, Scotland, Wales and Northern which environmental cues such as {laughter} or and have all been working in the field for or if you would like some of our leaflets, provides information and support for people {music playing}. many years. please contact [email protected]. with hearing loss, their families and friends. Verbatim STT is used in all different kinds Booking our members through the ‘Book Chief Executive, Dr Lorraine Gailey, said, of situations: job interviews, training courses, a Reporter’ section on our website ensures “A large number of people in the UK often conferences, workshops, church services, that you will have access to the largest find that hearing loss and tinnitus go hand- arts/entertainment, school/university classes, pool of Verbatim STTRs available in the in-hand and to be able to work together in doctors/hospital appointments, community UK, without having to contact each one partnership with The Tinnitus Clinic will be groups - basically anywhere a deaf/hard-of- individually, therefore saving valuable time. The Professional Association Representing hugely beneficial for those we support.” hearing person requires the service. With no agency or admin fees charged, Verbatim Speech-To-Text Reporters

HAVE YOU RECEIVED GREAT SERVICE FROM YOUR AUDIOLOGIST? NOMINATE THEM FOR AN AWARD AND WIN GREAT PRIZES!

An international competition that recognises the great service of hearing task and was a very worthy winner of the professionals is now open for entries. The Audiologist of the Year competition, run award. by leading hearing aid battery manufacturer, Rayovac, invites patients to nominate their practitioner, thanking them for the difference they have made to their lives. “When we started I could hear and interpret virtually nothing without looking Sarah Smith, from Hampshire, nominated her audiologist, Sarah Baumann, for last at the speaker and now I can score year’s award. When Sarah went on to win the accolade of UK Audiologist of the 98% in repeating test sentences without Year, her patient also took home a bundle of great prizes. looking, use a landline phone and am gaining confidence with a mobile, What could I win? and beginning work to improve my If your audiologist wins following your nomination, you stand to take home some understanding of music again. All this in goodies, including a cash prize and a bundle of electrical goods totalling almost £500. six months - thank you so much Sarah!” Take a look at some examples What should I write in my entry? of well written entries at www. Reigning champion, Sarah Smith, shares her top tips on how to write a winning audiologistoftheyear.co.uk if you need nomination. any more inspiration. Sarah Smith (L) with her audiologist, Sarah Baumann who won AoTY 2015 In your entry you shoud include: How do I enter? • Plenty of background. Explain how long you or your family member has been To enter, visit www.audiologistoftheyear.co.uk where you can submit your nomination suffering with hearing loss and how this impacted upon your life. online or download an entry form to submit by post to: • Describe your appointments and how your audiologist made you feel during those first few consultations. Did you have any contact with them outside of your Audiologist of the Year 2016, Spectrum Brands (UK) Ltd., Washington, Tyne & Wear, appointments? NE37 3HW. • The difference your audiologist has made to your life. Tell us about the things you might not have been able to do beforehand that you can now. Entries close on 8th July 2016. All nominations must be submitted Sarah explains: “It meant a great deal to me to be able to nominate my audiologist, by patients, however audiologists Sarah Baumann, for this award and say ‘thank you’ for her amazing work. can promote the competition in their practice by downloading promotional “I first met her in December 2014 as my implant was activated. Since then she and materials from the competition my rehabilitationist were a huge support over eight appointments and additional website. workshops. She made the rehabilitation process an adventure rather than a daunting 6 International news Hearing Times Spring 2016 Continued from front page Saudi couple teaches deaf students to read Qur’an Disabled children miss out on play opportunities vital to their development A Saudi couple has been praised for their efforts to teach a group of deaf youth point to barriers they face in accessing Local policy: how to recite and memorize the Quran, Al-Watan daily reported and enjoying play. It means that disabled • Local authorities should be required Sultan Al-Hamoud is a teacher of Qur’an children don’t have the same chance to form to take action, as necessary, against recitation and memorization in Al-Ras friendships, and parents are prevented from settings which intentionally exclude Governorate. With the collaboration and taking a break from caring. Both disabled disabled children and fail to meet their support of the Qur’an Recitation Charity, Al- children and their parents are excluded from legal duties under the Equality Act 2010. Hamoud and his wife volunteered to teach their own communities. • Local authorities should take a lead on a total of 20 deaf young men and women increasing awareness and understanding how to recite the Qur’an with the correct “I know that there is strong support across of the general public and other parents intonation. the political spectrum for addressing the about disabled children. This could be findings of this report, and I look forward to centrally funded but locally delivered. “I am an instructor of special education working with colleagues from all parties to • Local authorities should consider whether with a specialization in teaching the deaf. achieve real change for parents and families there could be a modest retraining of Students are taught the correct pronunciation I realized that most of them are not able to of the texts of the Qur’an across the nation.” existing health professionals to enable pronounce the texts of the Qur’an clearly them to provide the support needed to because they have never heard it,” said Al- memorization. Our sessions are given help families of children with multiple Hamoud. He added his heart was broken between Maghrib and Isha prayers. I teach Key findings from the report: needs to play. once he realized that these students have 15 young men and my wife teaches five • 92% of parents felt that their child did • Local authorities should provide easily- never heard the serenity of the Qur’an and young girls,” said Al-Hamoud. not have the same opportunities to play accessible information for parents to help are unable to enjoy it the way most people as their non-disabled peers, and 81% of them to find out about existing play and do. He added teaching deaf students is parents reported difficulties in accessing support services. challenging but his experience in the field has mainstream play groups and local play “So I had the idea, two years ago, to start made his goal in improving their recitation opportunities. giving sessions at a local mosque to teach achievable. • 51% of children had been turned away Play settings: young deaf students how to recite and from play settings by providers, failing to • Settings should ensure that play staff memorize the Qur’an. I want to give them “We instruct them on what needs to be meet their legal duties under the Equality have received training on disability to help at least a taste of what the Qur’an feels like improved through sign language as we Act 2010. improve the way they support children and when recited,” said Al-Hamoud. cannot demonstrate it orally. The deaf • 95% of parents said that parents of families. This should include responding are more conscious of the way their vocal children with multiple-needs require to medical needs and communicating with He said his wife supports him and joins tracts work and the way their tongues form support to find ways to play with their children with specialist communication him in teaching young women in their sounds. We also ask them to write down the children. needs. The training should also enable weekly sessions. “We offer two sessions verses from their own memory to make sure • Majority of parents had experienced them to create an environment and ethos a week. We teach the students recitation they have memorized the verses,” said Al- negative attitudes towards their child which is inclusive and developmentally and pronunciation. Then we work on Hamoud. from other parents and most considered appropriate. this to be the most significant barrier to • Every play setting should have a play accessing mainstream play. policy statement which stresses the For more international news visit • 40% of parents said that additional inclusion of every child. www.hearingtimes.co.uk financial costs was a major barrier to • Settings should plan carefully prior to accessing play opportunities the admission of every child in order to Design school fined in deaf discrimination case • 63% of parents said they didn’t have ensure their needs are met and that they enough information on accessible play will be welcomed and understood by The Helsinki District Court has issued a 1,200 euros fine on the head of a private Helsinki design school for retracting its offer of a place to a deaf applicant. opportunities in their area, and word other parents and their children. The court found the institution and its principal guilty of discrimination but the of mouth is commonly used in place of • Voluntary sector organisations should do defendants say they are considering an appeal official sources of information. more to share their significant experience • Families feel there is a lack of specialist of supporting children with specific Back in 2014, privately-run Helsinki Design we will see fit to take the case to the Court of support that can be accessed locally, and impairments and multiple needs with School turned away design student Oskari Appeal”. many make long journeys to access play public and private play settings. This Salomaa, citing insufficient resources to settings. could include offering training and toolkits provide interpreter services. The institution Although Salomaa had been accepted • There is a lack of strategic approach to on inclusive play. had previously accepted Salomaa for the to study at the school early in 2014, the funding play for children with multiple year-long program, but retracted the place school only learned that he was deaf when needs at local and national levels across Sense Deputy CEO, Richard Kramer, said, when it learned of his special needs. his interpreter reached out to the school one England, with no notional funding for “Play is critical in giving children the best start week before his studies were due to begin. special educational needs and provision in life and improving outcomes for children On Monday, the Helsinki District Court in the early years and their families. ruled that the school had violated non- The school justified withdrawing the study discrimination laws in refusing Salomaa the opportunity by saying that it did not have Key recommendations from the report: “The report makes clear, however, that opportunity to study. sufficient time to make the necessary special where a child has multiple needs, the barriers arrangements for Salomaa. It also noted that National policy: they face to accessing play settings and The court imposed a fine of 1,280 euros Salomaa learned he was accepted in May • Greater investment in play as part of early activities are also multiplied. on the school CEO and also called on and did not contact the school until autumn. years funding to support play in the home the institution and its chief executive to and in mainstream services. “We hope that local and national compensate Salomaa to the tune of 8,000 However the court pointed out that the • Developmental play services such as policymakers, as well as play professionals, euros. The defendants are also required institution’s application form had no place for Portage should become a statutory reflect on today’s recommendations, and to settle Salomaa’s legal expenses, which applicants to indicate any special needs. service for disabled children under the make the necessary changes that will make amounted to nearly 8,500 euros. age of two, with an increased emphasis access to play a reality for all children.” The school’s CEO noted that it is a private on children with multiple needs. Salomaa said that he was pleased with the fee-paying institution that does not receive • Play should be a key strand of the Sense will use the inquiry findings to outcome, “This means that sign language public support, and that its operations are not Government’s policy on parenting and campaign for changes to the way play users have a right to be part of Finnish supervised by any government authority. should be an explicit part of government- services are designed and delivered. They society. I won’t appeal the decision,” Salomaa funded parenting classes. plan to produce a series of toolkits for parents, said after the ruling. As such it felt that it was not required to • The Equality and Human Rights providers and commissioners of play. abide by non-discrimination laws. However Commission should investigate the Lawyer for the defendants, Jaana the court found that in spite of the school’s exclusion of children with multiple needs Juutilainen said that she was disappointed situation, it was obliged to observe non- from mainstream play settings, and take The full report can be downloaded at with the court’s decision, “It’s very likely that discrimination regulations. action to enforce the Equality Act 2010. www.sense.org.uk/play Hearing Times Spring 2016 Community 7 Community Trust signs Made up sign language causes confusion An article written for Third Force News by Deaf Action staff members: Frankie commitment to improve access McLean, Colin Simpson, Leah Kalaitzi, Mark McMillan, and Martin Robertson Deaf Action staff explain why teaching It is essential for deaf children to be able to to services for deaf community British Sign Language is the best way for access the hearing world and for the hearing deaf children to be able to access the hearing world to be able to communicate with them, Representatives from Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Partnership world and for the hearing world to be able to for example, to access their education, NHS Trust have signed up to a Charter pledging to improve access to communicate with them. opportunities for work and accessing public health services for deaf, hard of hearing and deaf blind communities in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent services. In a recent article (‘Teaching kids to sign The signing, which took place during a naturally’ TFN 15 January 2016), Pauline The only way to do this is through a workshop event for the deaf community, is Owen explained the work of See and Sign, recognised language specialist which in part of a commitment by the Partnership Trust the company she founded to teach young this case is BSL. This is possible by using to personal, fair and diverse services when people sign language in families who have professionally qualified interpreters and other providing health and social care services and a deaf loved one. She suggested that people communication support workers who use BSL. employment. develop their own “signing vernacular” rather There needs to be a commonly understood than learn BSL. language in order to do this, unfortunately this The workshop event, organised in partnership is not possible if the child has only been taught with Autism and Sensory Support in Staffordshire As people who are profoundly deaf, we use and works with family signs. (ASSIST), provided an opportunity for the deaf British Sign Language (BSL). We all work community to learn about how the Trust will work Dr Terry Riley OBE, centre, commended the at Deaf Action, a deaf-led charity based in Our organisation uses qualified deaf BSL with partners to improve access, experience workshop describing it as “excellent” Edinburgh that is working for an equal and users to deliver high quality accredited and outcomes for deaf people in Staffordshire better future for deaf, deafened and hard of sign language classes through the Scottish and Stoke-on-Trent. Dr Terry Riley OBE said, “The Charter is hearing people we felt rather concerned that Qualifications Authority. We also offer deaf designed to empower local Deaf groups to families with a deaf child/children may view awareness training delivered by native BSL The Charter, developed with support from work in partnership with service providers this as a legitimate resource. users. We would encourage anyone wishing Staffordshire based charity DEAFvibe and and Deaf people, and we commend the Trust to learn sign language to do so through a derived from the British Deaf Association for doing this. BSL is an officially recognised language recognised learning body. (BDA) British Sign Language Charter, sets and the preferred language for deaf people out five pledges and commits to: “We are really looking forward to working in the UK. Many people who are not deaf The BSL (Scotland) Act has recently been 1. Ensure access for deaf people to closely with Staffordshire and Stoke on also use BSL. If children are to learn home passed to promote the use of BSL and has information and services Trent Partnership NHS Trust to help improve signs (made up signs), this would not be united the deaf communities throughout the 2. Promote learning and high quality access and rights for Deaf people and to understood within the wider deaf community country. It is a historical time for BSL and teaching of British Sign Language and lip facilitate more consultation with the Deaf and could lead to confusion and may delay important that sign language learners are speaking skills community living in the region.” language acquisition. taught by legitimate qualified tutors. 3. Support deaf children and families 4. Ensure that staff have competence to He added, “As Chair of the British Deaf communicate effectively with the deaf Association I must commend the Partnership community Trust for an excellent workshop. For me it was 5. Consult with the Trust's deaf community a mixture of moving personal experiences, a on a regular basis desire to listen to each other from all parties and a commitment to not only improve the The Trust, one of the UK's biggest providers quality of services provided by the trust but of integrated health and adult social care, is also a commitment to ensure the views of the first Staffordshire trust to sign the Charter deaf, hard of hearing and deafblind people and commit to the five pledges. were listened to.”

Interim Chairman David Pearson and David Pearson, Interim Chairman of the Director of Workforce and Development Julie Partnership Trust, said, “We are proud to have Tanner signed the Charter on behalf of the signed the Charter in front of representatives Partnership Trust, along with Chair of the from the deaf community. We look forward to British Deaf Association Dr Terry Riley OBE. working with the BDA and deaf community to The Charter was also witnessed and signed monitor progress and achievement of the five by Chair of DEAFvibe Julie Hart. pledges we have committed to.”

Deaf Scots pupils form pen pal link Helpdesk for hearing loss with HoH Gambian children Hearing Link understands the impact and challenges of living with hearing loss. Dozens of letters were delivered to Saint John’s School for the Deaf in Gambia, where kids are being fed by Lanarkshire-based charity, Project Gambia: People We’re here to provide personalised information and support Feeding People for you, your loved ones and professionals in the sector. As well as battling hunger and poverty, the letter link-up gave their students insight into 284 pupils attending classes in Serrekunda how disadvantaged youngsters cope with the Ask the helpdesk: suffer discrimination and social isolation same condition. Email: [email protected] because of their deafness. The letters were taken out by Project Tel: 0300 111 1113 SMS: 07526 123255 Hamilton School for the Deaf, St Gerard’s Gambia volunteers Frank Devine, Paul Primary in Bellshill and Calderside Academy Lafferty and Charlie Docherty, who returned Hearing Link is a UK charity active in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for in Blantyre’s hearing impaired unit teamed with messages written by the Gambian people with hearing loss, their family and friends. up with Project Gambia: People Feeding youngsters. Royal Patron HRH The Princess Royal People. Reg Charity No: 264 809 Scottish Charity No: SC037688 www.hearinglink.org Donations to the charity can be made Teachers at the Scots schools said the at www.justgiving.com/project-gambia

Hearing Times advert (print).indd 1 18-Feb-16 1:06:01 PM 8 Community Hearing Times Spring 2016 Celebrating International Cochlear Implant Day On International Cochlear Implant Day (25 February) Cochlear Europe Ltd in the UK, together with implant centres around the country, celebrated how this technology has changed and impacted individuals’ lives who have severe to profound hearing loss

It’s Friday. I’m thankful. Mainly The company and the 21 implant centres in because it’s Friday. But also because I’ve discovered something UK and Ireland shared stories of people who rather marvellous about the place have recently been implanted and describe I’m working at the moment.... their cochlear implant as “a gift”, “a miracle” and “life changing”. Earlier in the week, the fire alarm went off. It was a planned test. I Around 10,000 people in the UK have a knew about it in advance. But the cochlear implant, including children who strangest thing happened. generally have two. However, fewer than 10% of adults who are severely or profoundly You see, I can’t hear things like deaf and who would qualify for a cochlear fire alarms. Not even with my posh implant on the NHS have one. Phonak Nathos hearing aids in. Not even, if I stand right under the alarm. I hear nothing. “There are a significant number of adults over the age of 65* whose hearing aids are no But today, in the small office where longer sufficient. For these patients, cochlear I am working, where there’s a radio implants may provide good outcomes in playing that’s loud enough for me to terms of hearing, self-confidence, autonomy Staff of Cochlear Europe throwing yellow baseball caps in the air to celebrate Cochlear Implant Day hear, I did notice that the fire alarm and all round quality of life, regardless of age”, was going off. said Mariska Leighton, Cochlear Marketing Hearing loss unsuccessfully treated has ENT consultant surgeon, Mr Andrew Manager UK, Ireland and South Africa. been linked to depression, dementia and Marshall, from the Nottingham Auditory How? Everything else got quieter. life threatening falls in adults aged 65-plus. Implant Programme, said, “There is a Namely the radio. While the “Age makes no difference,” she said. Two-thirds of the older population suffer from potential for the patient to become isolated alarm rang for 30 seconds (I’d been warned this was how long “Research comparing cochlear implants to hearing loss and for men and women aged and withdrawn because they are missing out it would ring for) everything else hearing aids found that patients using hearing 70-plus, it is now the prevalent disability. on social interaction, and so hearing loss has sounded like it had been put on aids gradually lost their ability to understand a significant impact on their quality of life.” mute. Muffled. Like I’d turned off speech as they grew older. However, for “The longer it takes to treat a patient, the my hearing aids but left them in my patients using a cochlear implant, speech more difficult it is for their brain to readjust to “It’s great that industry is coming together ears. recognition performance was similar for all recognise sounds unheard for many years”, to celebrate cochlear implants as there is ages, with there being no statistical difference said Tracey Twomey, head of the Nottingham insufficient awareness of the availability of OK, I reasoned, so things like the between patients aged older and younger Auditory Implant Programme. “We know a lot cochlear implants to treat adults with severe general hum of conversation would than 80.**” of adults qualify and are not being referred,” to profound hearing loss, with a clear unmet die down during the alarm as people she said. need in adults in this country.” struggled to hear over it, but the Cochlear is planning its first day of radio? The voice of the person sat right by me? That was more celebration and awareness on February 25, “This may be because GPs, Audiologists, If you would like to read more about unexpected. to mark how its implants have transformed Ear, Nose and Throat Consultants or patients personal experiences of recipients or would the lives of thousands of people in the UK are misinformed or lacking information, or like to speak to somebody with an implant, And I think it’s great. You see, by returning them to a hearing world. The patients are simply not wanting to go ahead Cochlear can put you in touch with a what I’ve started realising over the company will be bringing together and with an implant.” volunteer. last few years of wearing hearing sharing the success stories from recipients aids is that it’s not about getting as well as the professionals who work with “We want to encourage severe to Visit www.iwanttohear.com ‘conventional’ hearing back. It’s cochlear implantation. profoundly deaf patients to come forward for about getting anything back. information and assessment if appropriate.” *Mosnier I. Cochlear Implant Outcomes in the “International Cochlear Implant Day Elderly, Audiology & Neurotology 2011:17:20-12 It’s so different to my ultra short- was also celebrated nationally by The Ear Ms Twomey added, “Living with a cochlear ** Kiessling et al. Candidature for and delivery sightedness. I mean, if I left the optician with mediocre vision that Foundation and Action on Hearing Loss, implant is quite straightforward and the NHS of audiological services: Special needs of older sometimes meant I could see things among many other hearing loss charities, provides lifelong support. Nevertheless, it’s people. Int J Audiol 2033; 42:2S92-2S101 Steffens I had never seen before, I’d march who are working together to increase adult a big commitment by the individual and the et al. Hearing in the Elderly: Cochlear Implants straight back in and demand they awareness and access to the different medical team and needs to be a properly in comparison to Hearing Aids. Audiology & did something about it. But it’s hearing solutions available on the NHS that informed choice by the patient. We have to Neurotology 2011:17:6-7 different with my ears. can help older adults now and in the years to manage expectations, but the results can be come,” added Ms Leighton. life changing.” I know that I will never have perfect hearing. That no matter what I do, I will never be able to make out conversation without lipreading, Brothers chosen for top business scheme get further cash boost listen to the radio and catch more Two brothers who have launched a deaf-led online communication agency aimed at educational settings are than the odd word and hear things celebrating a £2,000 cash boost for their growing business like babies crying at a distance, phones ringing and indeed, fire The co-founders of cSeeker, Alex and Guy organisation called Football Road Trips, took book communication support. Thanks to all alarms ringing. Orlov, already had a sought-after place on the the prizes this time around. the wonderful interpreters who work for us. national Entrepreneurial Spark programme, We look forward to continuing to serve the But if my ears can give me a clue launched in Birmingham last year offering cSeeker provides a reliable way for deaf deaf community, and to ploughing back this that this is happening. If I know that dozens of entrepreneurs a string of benefits or hard of hearing students and the places money into services for them. when the office sounds muted, then from regular mentoring to free office space in where they learn to access the expertise of the fire alarm is going off, then that which to work. the right Communication Professional (CP) “Our aim is to operate ethically, offering a is most definitely better than nothing. for their needs. high quality service with maximum availability The scheme also runs regular events so that a student is never left without support. And that makes today a very thankful Friday. called Acceler8 every few months giving Alex said, “Both of us have hearing However big we get we’ll always be deaf-led.” cash prizes for those “who best demonstrate problems ourselves, so understand only www.deafinitelygirly.com the mindsets and behaviours of a successful too well the frustrations deaf students in entrepreneur”. cSeeker, along with an particular can experience when trying to For information visit www.cseeker.co.uk Hearing Times Spring 2016 Arts & Culture 9 Ground-breaking BDA documentary British deaf actress Sophie Stone premieres lost film footage searches for next generation of deaf The British Deaf Association is to premiere lost film footage in a ground- breaking documentary at the Barn Cinema in Dartington actors, musicians and dancers Power in Our Hands is described as a Dr Who actress, Sophie Stone, is helping the National Deaf Children’s landmark documentary containing newly Society (NDCS) encourage young deaf actors, musicians and dancers to digitised archive footage, available to the showcase their performance skills and enter Raising the Bar, a music, dance and drama competition public for the first time, exploring the secret history and heritage of the deaf community Raising the Bar was developed last year Lane from ‘Music and the Deaf’, a unique in the UK. by NDCS to make dance and music more charity working to ensure everyone has the accessible for the 45,000 deaf children and opportunity to enjoy music. The weekend Combining social history and archive film young people in the UK. This year they have will culminate in a live showcase of the with contemporary interviews, and released added acting to the range of performing newly found Raising the Bar stars, at Mac in the 125th anniversary year of the British arts skills. It aims to increase the levels of Birmingham, demonstrating exactly what Deaf Association, Power in Our Hands The film reveals the history, heritage and deaf awareness through the arts, whilst deaf children and young people can achieve. explores the recognition of British Sign culture of the Deaf community also raising the expectations and standards Language and Deaf rights in the UK. people really enjoying life, dancing in the of what deaf children, young people and Sophie Stone, who was the first deaf student street - what joyous years they were. professionals believe they can achieve. at one of the leading acting schools, RADA, The idea for the film began in 2004 when a said, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be launching group of builders accidently stumbled across “This film will give the deaf community a Entrants to the competition (8 – 18 year NDCS’s ‘Raising the Bar’ competition. When the long-lost film from the BDA, dating back feeling of history and sense of pride knowing olds) had six weeks to create and submit I was young I always loved acting and I am to the 1930s. BSL has been around for hundreds of years.” a video of themselves performing a dance, so glad that deaf children and young people drama or music routine. Twenty-four lucky will get the chance to build on their skills and The new digitised footage was then Project manager Jemma Buckley said, winners will be selected by NDCS staff and self-confidence in drama, dance or music. carefully compiled into an uplifting 70 minute “The process of gathering stories and leading deaf professionals from the arts documentary. memories about the events taking place industry, and invited to attend a two-day “It’s so important that deaf children and in this rare footage has really enabled our masterclass on 18-19 June 2016. young people get the same opportunities Terry Riley, chair of the British Deaf archive to come alive. and support to get into the performing arts. Association said, “To see this old film Masterclass training sessions will be led by For me, going to RADA was a wonderful footage is an emotional occasion for me. For “The important thing which is highlighted Mark Smith, acclaimed deaf choreographer experience which has led me onto playing many years, I never really knew or saw my during the film, is that British Sign Language and artistic director of the all-male dance some fantastic roles on TV and in the theatre. language on screen. cannot be recorded in any other way other company Deaf Men Dancing, deaf actress than film – it cannot be fully captured when Charly Arrowsmith who runs Deafinitely For more information visit “So to be able to sit down and see BSL on written down or photographed - so this is the Theatre’s youth projects, and Danny www.youngpeople.ndcsbuzz.org.uk a par with any other language is a wonderful only way the language can be preserved for thing. To watch a bygone era - one I thought future generations. was lost forever to the world is just magical. “The preservation of BSL is one of BDA's “Clips like the old missionaries, with fingers key aims so this is a very important project dancing up and down like lightening and deaf for the organisation.” Teen tunes into dream job at local radio station A young journalist and deaf campaigner has landed a job he never thought possible by securing himself a slot as a radio presenter on Siren FM For residential and day pupils aged 3 - 19 years Liam O’Dell, 18, from Ampthill, is mild to moderately deaf, meaning he can’t hear very well in public spaces and has been wearing "We are thrilled and very proud that our son is going to university. hearing aids since the age of 13. The journey started at St John’s where he has had excellent teaching and the staff really believed in his potential. The support he has had from the school has been amazing." He has never let this get in his way and has been an avid campaigner for deaf people for some years.

Liam, who is studying Journalism at the University of Lincoln, said, “Some hearing Liam O’Dell is presents a show on SirenFM people think that deaf people can’t listen to music, but that’s not always true. I can still “His success is a great example of what listen to music. can be achieved with a ‘can do’ attitude and when both sides are proactive and “In fact, being deaf had made me prepared to break down barriers with equal appreciate it even more and I am so proud to commitment to making it work. being running my own radio show.” “With our work at Access Bedford we want "All students leave with a range of "A nurturing and caring ethos which is Liam, who now presents on SirenFM to raise awareness and the profile of our local qualifications and accreditations which promoted throughout school is reflected prepare them exceptionally well for the in the caring attitudes pupils show each in Lincoln, also sat on the National Deaf deaf community and in his new role Liam will next phase in their education or the world to other and adults alike" Children’s Society’s Youth Advisory Board be a fantastic ambassador for this.” of work" Ofsted 2015 and is an active member of local deaf advocacy group, Access Bedford. Jo Dowbekin, Head of Children and Youth For more information or to arrange a visit please contact: Participation at the National Deaf Children’s Mandy Dowson, Parental Support Manager, St John’s School for the Deaf, Church Street, Boston Spa, West Yorkshire, L23 6NE Alison Crook, from Access Bedford, said, Society, said, “Liam is an absolute star. He T: 01937 842144 F: 01937 541471 E: [email protected] W: www.stjohns.org.uk “Liam is a fantastic role model for young deaf has a real passion for music and people, a people in our community, and I am extremely creative energy and an infectious personality delighted with him securing this role as a – all the makings of a fantastic radio Where every voice is heard and celebrated radio presenter. presenter.

St John's_A4_NDCS Advert_v2_31.01.2016.indd 1 04/02/2016 11:05 10 Technology Hearing Times Spring 2016 Phonak Roger Pen wins prestigious Polish teen develops text messenger iF DESIGN AWARD 2016 app for Deaf community Phonak have announced that its Roger Pen has been recognized for What began as an affinity for rap music has become an improved method of outstanding product design with the iF DESIGN AWARD, one of the most non-verbal communication for the Deaf community prestigious design competitions in the world Mateusz Mach is the Polish teen The Roger Pen is an advanced wireless causing it to roll until the responsible for the development of Five, microphone for those affected by hearing microphone openings “the world’s first messenger for deaf people,” loss. With its functional and inconspicuous face upwards. Both according to the young entrepreneur. design, it mimics a pen in shape and looks features improve hearing more like a stylish device than a medical performance for those The app began as a way for him and instrument. affected by hearing loss his friends to send custom hand signs that looked like the ones his favourite rap artists The pen was selected to receive the coveted Users benefit from would throw up. The 17-year-old founder labels the app “the seal of design excellence in the category of an extra performance boost with the Roger world’s first messenger for deaf people” Medicine/Healthcare by an international, Pen in the most difficult listening situations, When designing the program back in high-profile jury of design professionals, such as in noise or over distance. It helps 2015, Mach called on the skills of freelance the software. The move not only expanded press members and academics. those affected by hearing loss to understand coders who to help put together the apps for the app’s archive but gave deaf users more speech up to 62% better than people without smartphones and the Apple Watch. and more of the options they needed to “We are delighted and greatly honored to hearing loss (1). communicate digitally. receive the iF DESIGN AWARD recognition,” Soon, what started as a joke was being said Drs. Hans Mülder, Marketing Director The pen is easy to use: by clicking tiny used by an unexpected audience: the deaf The recent funding acquired by Mach will of Phonak Communications. “The award receivers into their hearing aid, users can and hard of hearing. The small images were allow him to bring ASL experts on board to highlights our efforts to pair the highest hear the speaker directly in the ear. The similar to the signs used in ASL (American improve the app’s American appeal. standards in hearing performance, ease of integrated wideband Bluetooth chip enables Sign Language) and ISL (International Sign use and innovation with outstanding design.” wireless cell phone calls and transmits the Language). Users can choose a pre-made or self- sound from the TV wirelessly to the ears, designed sign to identify themselves with, Among design features to convince the making users’ lives easier. As a result, Five began to emerge as a and invite their friends to use the messenger iF jury is a special layer of lacquering on preferred method of digital communication system through Facebook integration. the pen’s surface that reduces friction noise (1) Professor Thibodeau, Linda, PhD (2014), for community where texting isn’t impossible, significantly compared to ordinary lacquering. Comparison of speech recognition with adaptive but isn’t entirely familiar either. The app has the potential to affect a digital and FM wireless technology by listeners significant chunk of people. In the United The Roger Pen’s design guarantees that who use hearing aids, University of Texas, Dallas, Upon realizing the impact his app was States alone there are more than one-million speech is picked up in an optimal way thanks USA, The American Journal of Audiology. Volume having, the 17-year-old developer began deaf people according to Gallaudet University to a weight mounted inside the device, 23, 201-210, June 2014. actively implementing the ISL dictionary into research.

Specsavers launches Hearing Check app Got a product you want reviewed? Specsavers Audiologists has launched a new app to help check your hearing Ask our independent reviewers to look into it! Email [email protected] The app, which is available to download for free on the App and Play store on iOS or Android devices, carries out a short check of approximately two minutes and provides an indication as to whether the user would Teen inventors create live closed- benefit from a full, free hearing test at their local Specsavers Audiologists. captioning glasses for the Deaf

The app uses a speech in noise check Seventeen-year-old Daniil Frants and his buddies hope to help the hard-of- to quickly indicate a level of hearing loss hearing engage in naturally flowing conversations and can be carried out at home in a quiet environment. It requires the user to plug in It’s a common misconception that most a pair of headphones and plays a series of hearing-impaired people can easily read lips. common sounds over background noises. But while many are indeed practiced lip Audiologist and head of professional readers, only 30 to 40 percent of English can advancement at Specsavers Audiologists be understood through watching the mouth. Nick Taylor, said, “The new Hearing Check Much of spoken English occurs without lip app is a great way for people who are unsure movement, while many sounds, such as ‘b’ whether they might have hearing loss to and ‘p,’ look identical. check for themselves in the comfort of their The hearing check can be carried out quickly own home. This leaves many hearing-impaired people The device turns speech into text in front of and easily in any quiet environment your eyes at a loss when communicating with the “The quick check takes less than five The user is asked to adjust the volume of hearing. A number of recent technological Now, a company is hoping to help the minutes and could act as the tipping point the main sound to a comfortable level before innovations attempt to address the issue, hearing-impaired in a more seamless way. needed to encourage someone to book a moving onto the next stage in the check, from devices that turn spoken language into The Live-Time Closed Captioning System hearing check with an audiologist. It's also a which then plays a background noise before text on a smartphone to speculative systems (LTCCS) instantly turns speech into scrolling useful tool for family members who may think asking the user to readjust the volume. Two to allow deaf people to “hear” through their text displaying on a tiny screen clipped to a their loved one is experiencing hearing loss. additional phases follow, before the user is tongues. pair of glasses. given a recommendation dependent on their “Not only does it check hearing, it allows level of hearing loss. That's right—researchers from Colorado Currently in the proof of concept phase, you to find your nearest store, book an State University are developing an earpiece LTCCS’s founders say it “restores the appointment online and offers information For more information visit that translates sounds into electrical patterns user's ability to engage in a naturally flowing and advice about hearing loss.” www.specsavers.co.uk/hearing that it then sends to a retainer. conversation.” Hearing Times Spring 2016 Technology 11 Canadian University Dubai team develops app for deaf Puretone introduce new Puma soundproof booths A team of university students have set out to help bridge the gap between the deaf and non-deaf communities of the UAE through a mobile application that teaches users the fundamentals of Emirati sign-language Puretone are pleased to announce the brand new range of soundproof The students from Canadian University members of the deaf community to access booths from Puma Dubai, or CUD, came up with the idea for the education and employment opportunities,” app named Efhamni - Arabic for ‘understand he added. Now being offered to the UK market, the me’ - after research revealed that families new elegant modular design of soundproof with deaf children tend to adopt more The application is being developed in booths provide quality soundproofing informal methods of communication that consultation with the Kalimati Speech and performance with completely tailored could limit the child’s potential to engage with Communication Centre and the UAE Deaf modules to suit specific audiology needs. The app is called Efhamni, which means wider society. Association, and will provide a practical ‘understand me’ in Arabic and interactive platform to learn the Emirati The range comprises a number of different The technology is being developed as part sign-language through a selection of video Sveccha and Youshey, who are responsible models to cover all requirements, even when of the Ripples of Happiness Programme, a tutorials that relate to a range of everyday for corporate sustainability initiatives at space is at a premium. The PRO28F offers region-wide community initiative delivered by activities. telecoms firm du, said, “From the first day a standard size model or a slim-line variant, the Coca-Cola Foundation and Injaz UAE, we met the students we could sense their which is designed to be easily transported on which aims to encourage social responsibility. Fellow team member Nérimel Bessa passion and will to make a difference. wheels; whereas the larger PRO35F modular added, “Our main goal is to unite the two design boasts a wide range of sizes up to The programme supports students to communities, and to promote integration “The concept and thought behind Efhamni 9m2. develop projects that will leave a positive and communication so that hearing impaired definitely addresses a need that is currently impact on society, to encourage other people can play a full role in society. not being met, and has potential to evolve Additional integrated options include: members of the community to follow their and be a game changer. tables, seating, various flooring, windows, lead, thereby creating a ‘ripple effect’. “The app is not only a practical solution to ramps, ventilation systems, emergency an everyday problem, but also contributes to “No doubt we’ve faced challenges through lighting, jack panels, etc. Architecture student and member of the the goals relating to community cohesion and the process, but in the end, we hope that this Efhamni project management team Craig harnessing the potential of human capital, experience will take the students a long way.” Managing Director of Puretone, Baz Muyambo said, “Emirati sign-language was featured in the UAE’s national strategic plan, Choudhry, said,“Offering a comprehensive formally developed five years ago, but the Vision 2021.” The team is now continuing to fine-tune range of sizes and additional options makes dialect still isn’t fully utilised among the 2,000 the technology before its formal launch, these booths very flexible and therefore able deaf people and their families in the UAE.” As part of the Ripples of Happiness which will be marked with an event involving to meet the varying needs of dispensers and Programme, the team was supported by members of the deaf community in January. clinics across the country.” “What’s more, there is a shortage of a group of mentors: assistant professor instructors to teach both deaf and non-deaf Jeanette Teh and representatives from the For more information visit For more information visit people how to communicate through the local business community, Sveccha Kumar www.cud.ac.ae www.puretone.net language, and this is limiting the potential for and Youshey Zakiuddin.

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Telephone: +44 (0)1483 473 810 Conversor Ltd, The Lansbury Estate, www.conversorproducts.com Freephone: 0800 298 9982 (UK only) 102 Lower Guildford Road, Knaphill, Email: [email protected] Woking, Surrey GU21 2EP (UK) 12 Health Hearing Times Spring 2016 Survey shows nearly one in two people Local hearing centre organises have experienced ringing sound in ears tinnitus info and awareness event To help tinnitus sufferers gain knowledge about the Nearly one in two people across the UK (43%) have experienced tinnitus, condition, a local hearing care company organised a one off a ringing or buzzing sound in the head or ears, according to a new poll by event for people to spend time with one of the UK’s leading tinnitus experts charity Action on Hearing Loss published to mark Tinnitus Awareness Week (8 – 14 February). The number rises to over half (53.4%) for those aged 18 to The Hearing Care Centre, based in Ipswich on for over an hour; so much was the desire for 24 years old in the UK organised a presentation by Professor David guests to seek his professional opinion. A third of people (34%) surveyed said that or already living with the condition, but Baguley, Director of Audiology services at they are exposed to loud noise every day worryingly 85% of people are unaware or Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, as Karen Finch, Managing Director and Senior with over a quarter (27%) of respondents unsure of the help available. part of Tinnitus Awareness Week. Audiologist at The Hearing Care Centre, said, having experienced ringing in their ears or “As audiologists we see patients’ day in day dulled hearing after work. “It’s imperative that tinnitus sufferers are Ipswich born Professor Baguley's main out who come to us about their tinnitus. They referred to NHS Audiology by their GP’s to research interest is in tinnitus, concerning haven’t been able to seek help elsewhere At the same time a worrying 40% of people help them manage their condition. both what insights it gives us into the and are looking for answers”, she said. didn’t know that being exposed to loud noise human auditory system, and how it might be can lead to permanent tinnitus. Over two “We as a charity run a free Tinnitus alleviated. “By organising an event like this it allowed thirds (70%) of respondents were not aware Information Line which provides vital support people time to understand the condition, the of a link between tinnitus and developing to those affected and their families and we His presentation gave attendees a better whys and wherefores and learn about small hearing loss in later life. would like to encourage anyone affected not understanding about what tinnitus is, how it changes they can make to help manage it.” to suffer in silence, but reach out for support affects us and where researchers are at in their Paul Breckell, Action on Hearing Loss that is out there.” quest to find a solution to the problem. He also For information visit Chief Executive, explained, “Almost half of took a question and answer session which went www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk/tinnitus us either experienced tinnitus in the past For information visit www.tinnitus.org

Music producer Mark Ronson is Ambassador for new tinnitus prevention campaign ‘Plug’em’

Plug’em aims to encourage wearing “I’ve had tinnitus for over 10 years and At present there is no cure. about earplugs, safe/ earplugs at gigs, festivals, clubs – it affects me 24/7. I wish I had been smart unsafe levels of sound basically anywhere you’re exposed enough to Plug’em earlier. I make sure that I One cause of tinnitus is over-exposure to and explains about to potentially dangerous noise levels do it now though”. unsafe levels of sound and the new Plug’em maximum exposure Mark is supporting the Plug’em campaign campaign, aims to raise awareness of the times. because he has tinnitus, and is keen to Tinnitus, which is commonly described as a need to wear earplugs at live music events raise awareness in others about the need to ringing or buzzing in the ears, is experienced such as gigs, clubs and festivals. For informatin visit protect hearing. by at least one in ten of the UK population – www.plugem.co.uk around 6 million people. The Plug’em campaign has information

The British Society of Audiology Annual Conference 25 – 27 April 2016 Ricoh Arena, Coventry Transforming Knowledge to Sound Practice

More information available: www.thebsa.org.uk Hearing Times Spring 2016 Health 13 5.7 million adults in England suffer with hearing loss, latest survey reveals At least 5.7 million adults in England, 13% of the adult population, suffer with hearing loss, the latest Health Survey for England has revealed

New findings from the annual survey of the This is the first time that hearing loss in - Only a quarter of adults with moderate SignHealth have launched a new nation’s health show that older men are most a national sample of the general population or worse hearing loss had had a hearing test campaign called ‘Therapy, the Deaf likely to have significant hearing loss; defined in England has been measured alongside in the last year. Way.’ as being likely to interfere with hearing survey questions on hearing difficulties. speech and affecting both ears. Dr Jennifer Mindell, Reader in Public Deaf people are twice as likely as In addition to testing the hearing of Health in UCL’s Department of Epidemiology hearing to experience a common - Hearing loss increases markedly people in the survey researchers also asked and Public Health, and co-author of this mental health problem. Yet they with age. It affects 14% of people aged 55- participants about their hearing difficulties, chapter of the report said: do not have equal access to 64; 29% aged 65-74; 55% aged 75-84; and revealing some discrepancies between psychological therapy. 83% aged 85 and over. In contrast, 98% of people’s perception of their hearing and the “Hearing difficulties make conversations young adults aged 16-24 had good hearing. results of the hearing tests. difficult, restrict people’s enjoyment of their Imagine having to tell someone social and personal life, and can make people about your mental health problems, - Hearing loss is more common among - A significant proportion of people were feel cut off from things so these high levels of who doesn’t know your language, older men than women. Half of men over 65 not aware that they had hearing loss. Nearly hearing loss are a cause for concern. with no communication support. (50%) had hearing loss compared with 38% one quarter (23%) of men and one in six of women. women (17%) aged 55 or over who reported “We should be particularly worried about Imagine going to see a therapist no difficulty hearing were found to have some the large numbers of people who have and having to discuss your personal The hearing of more than 5,300 people was hearing loss. hearing loss, but who aren’t aware of it or problems via an interpreter. tested as part of the study by researchers don’t wear a hearing aid.” from NatCen Social Research and UCL for - Less than a third (31%) of those aged Hearing people would not accept the Health & Social Care Information Centre 55 or over with hearing loss currently use a For more information visit this, why should Deaf people? Deaf (HSCIC). hearing aid. www.hscic.gov.uk/healthsurveyengland people should be able to see a therapist who can sign fluently. It’s not a lot to ask. Tell us your news and we’ll tell everyone! Email the HT team now at [email protected] Woke up deaf - the inspirational story of one man’s experience with Ménière’s disease So, this is how you can help: You can take a photo James Raath was diagnosed with Ménière’s disease which left him with acute hearing loss in both ears and effects less than 0.1% of the population of yourself with “I SUPPORT #THERAPYTHEDEAFWAY” written At the age of 50 years old James woke marathon runner to someone who found it Enzo hearing aids on a piece of paper, and post it, with up one morning completely deaf. He was difficult to walk 200 yards. Despite using a designed for severely the hashtag #TherapyTheDeafWay fit, healthy and had just completed the basic hearing aid working, socialising and deaf people. on your Facebook page, BSL Healthy 87Km Comrades Marathon (Durban to entertaining was almost impossible. Mind’s Facebook page, or anywhere! Pietermaritzburg) two weeks previously. James has turned James’ consultant advised him, “The good to writing about We want as many people as The impact on his business was immediate news is that Ménière’s disease won’t kill you, his experiences of possible to see your photos and and devastating: he could no longer conduct but the bad news is that your life will never his disability and share them. The more exposure they meetings, take phone calls, converse with be the same and you can give up any idea of ‘Love Mondays’ is get, the more likely government and anyone. His business came to a halt and so ever working again.” the encapsulation health professionals are to see them. did his income. of James’ years of He reached out for help and discovered experience in training individuals, teams We want them to see how important James had previously been diagnosed Hearing Link, a leading British hearing and companies, promoting his belief that a Therapy, the Deaf Way is, and make with Ménière’s disease when he was only 24 loss organisation and charity who invited business is only ever as successful as the deaf therapy a nationalised service. years old and woke up with altered hearing in him and his wife to a week-long intensive individuals working within it. And we need everyone’s help to do one ear - but was able to adjust to life. rehabilitation programme. James received it. intensive instruction and help, not only on With his health now improved, James Less than 0.2% of the UK population suffer how to live with Ménière’s and deafness, but delivers speaking and consultancy services SignHealth has also started a total deafness in one ear and also 0.1% suffer to also how build a new life around it. to companies who want to maximise the petition calling on Jeremy Hunt, the condition in both ears. James is of this commercial value of their employees. He the Secretary fo State to provide percentage who are afflicted with Ménière’s James joined a community of people who lives with his wife near the town of Petersfield, a national psychological therapy disease that has warning (or cure), he simply had the knowledge and experience to offer Hampshire. service for Deaf people with woke up completely deaf. the care and support that he and his family therapists who are fluent in British needed. He decided to embrace Sir Edmund Love Mondays by James Raath (published Sign Language (BSL). Other effects that James suffers include Hillary’s words, “It is not the mountain we February 2nd by Clink Street Publishing vertigo, tinnitus, severe pressure on the ear conquer but ourselves”. RRP £8.99 paperback, RRP £3.99 ebook) Sign it now at: www.signhealth. drum, headaches and nausea and severed is available online at retailers including good.do/therapythedeafway/ dizziness. Sometimes attacks would last 5-8 After time, James started to run again and amazon.co.uk and can be ordered from all telljeremyhuntdeafpeoplecount/ hours and occur daily or other times weeks took up cycling, eventually gaining strength good bookstores. would go by with nothing. and confidence. It was a long and difficult haul to get fit again but was determined to do For more information visit His health declined and went from a fit so. In 2014 he acquired a set of GN Resound www.lovemondays.global www.signhealth.org 14 Education Hearing Times Spring 2016 Disabled undergrads say employers have “no idea” about disability An animated film by award-winning artist Martin Pickles entitled “I had no idea” featuring the undergraduate Natasha talking about her experience of being disabled in the workplace can be found at www.leonardcheshire.org/change100

Name what? Father live where? Talented disabled students from some of The Change100 programme, which has the UK’s leading universities say job hunting run since 2014, supports talented university Statistics about the deaf/Deaf is often hampered by employers’ lack of students with a disability or a long term health The Change 100 programme explains how to disclose a disability with an employer population are notoriously difficult knowledge of disability. condition to find paid placements over the to get and even when we do have summer. The programme offers participants “Having a programme like Change100 is them, such as the number of sign Interview-based evidence from over fifty over their time at work, workshops on time- really helpful,” said Natasha, “it allows you language users declared in the 2011 Change100 students (a paid internship management, practicalities of the first weeks, to apply to enter the job market knowing the Census, they are open to challenge programme with major companies set up by and how to disclose a disability with an disabled side of things is already understood and not particularly accurate. Leonard Cheshire Disability) said until finding employer. by employers, so you are taken on the basis support in schemes such as Change100, few of your skills and talent. It takes the pressure An email reminder I received had had good experiences in the workplace. Businesses involved in hiring students off having to explain anything.” about the upcoming ‘Who Do You in 2015 include: BBC, Lloyds, DFID, Tate Think You Are? Live’ show (April Selbi, an undergraduate at London School Galleries, Taylor Wimpey, Thomson Reuters, Victoria Passant, Change100 Programme 2016, NEC) got me thinking about of Economics (LSE) who had a summer Wall to Wall and SABMiller. manager said, “You don’t have to disclose how deaf people were recorded in paid placement through Change100, said, “I anything at all at work or when looking for a earlier times. So I had a look online once had to quit a job with a small retailer An animated film by award-winning job, but it can be helpful for your employer at the Censuses for 1841 to 1911. because despite having told my boss I would artist Martin Pickles entitled “I had no idea” to know if you have a disability, so they need regular bathroom breaks owing to featuring the undergraduate Natasha talking can support you. It is in an employer’s best The first shocking thing to modern kidney disease, I was often the only one on about her experience of being disabled interests to give you a work environment sensibilities is the terminology duty and couldn’t leave the shop. I was so in the workplace can be found at www. which helps you thrive and do your best used. As well as some interesting embarrassed to ask that I got very ill and had leonardcheshire.org/change100 work.” examples of the approach to to quit.” deafness, descriptions like ‘Deaf and The student views come on the back Helena Ely, Head of Production at Wall dumb’ and ‘Stone deaf from birth’ Natasha, who is also at LSE, said, “Your of recent research carried out in October to Wall productions said, “Being involved in are not uncommon, and not only in confidence is really rocked when employers 2015 by research consultancy, ComRes for Change100 has been a great experience the classification of people. don’t understand you could be good at a job, Leonard Cheshire Disability. The study found and I would encourage other employers to but just need reasonable adjustments, such that 77pc of young disabled people (18-24) join the scheme. The standard of candidates The terms are also used to name as a larger screen, flexible work hours or a said they felt sharing information about their is very high and the support given both to the establishments into which deaf different chair to make a difference to your disability with a potential employer would the interns and employers throughout the people seem to have been herded; work.” affect the outcome of gaining employment. process is excellent.” schools, hospitals, institutes and asylums. Most of the declared deaf population seem to be listed GCSE figures show extensive attainment gap for deaf children as boarders, pupils and inmates, Latest government figures issued by the Department for Education show that GCSE attainment levels for deaf young rather than members of families. people in England have improved Was it something hidden from the authorities? In 2015 41.1% of deaf young people This is particularly concerning given that five good GCSEs is increasing. However there achieved five GCSEs (including English and the numbers of deaf children in England is still an alarming gap in attainment. There’s quite a lot of literature Maths) at grades A* to C, compared to 36.3% identified by local authorities has risen to around about deaf history generally, of deaf children in 2014. over 41,377 this year, up 2% over the past “Too many deaf children do not get the but relatively little on the study of year. The CRIDE report has also revealed specialist support they need in the classroom. deaf genealogy. On a practical note, However, almost two thirds (58.9%) of that The School Census continues to under- Deafness is not a learning disability and there I wonder if there are many people deaf children are failing to achieve the record the number of deaf children, with 42% is no reason why most deaf children should not out there who are either doing government’s expected benchmark of five not being picked up at all. be performing as well as their hearing peers. focused family history research into GCSEs at grade A* - C (including English deaf ancestors, or perhaps have and Maths), compared to just 35.8% of other The 23,945 deaf children identified by “The number of deaf children not being come across the ‘deaf’ notation children with no identified special educational the School Census amounts to 58% of the identified in the School Census is also against a member of their family and need. 41,377 deaf children identified by CRIDE. worrying and demonstrates that the want to find out more. This demonstrates that large numbers of Government does not have a grip on data for Alongside these results, a recent report deaf children are invisible to the Government. deaf children. Ultimately, this raises real fears My quick researches into past issued by the National Deaf Children’s It raises questions as to whether they are about whether these children are getting the censuses tend to show that statistics Society (NDCS) on behalf of the Consortium getting the specialist help that they need. support they need. on the deaf population was no more for Research in Deaf Education (CRIDE), accurate 100 years ago plus – it’s shows that England’s local authorities have Commenting on the recently released “The Government urgently needs to start hard to believe, for example, that reported a 4% decline in the numbers of figures, Susan Daniels, CEO, at the National taking responsibility and ensure that all deaf there were only around 2000 deaf qualified Teachers of the Deaf in the last 5 Deaf Children’s Society said, “It is good to see children have access to high quality education people in England in 1911, around years. that the number of deaf young people achieving support that will allow them to thrive.” 4500 in 1891, and fewer than 1000 in 1871 and earlier! Skype Translator developed for Deaf and HoH use If deaf genealogy and research is an Skype has an application that enables sign language users, those with difficulty in hearing and the deaf to area of interest for you, we’d love to communicate with hearing persons who are incapable of using the sign language hear your family stories – do get in touch via [email protected]. The application is known as Skype translated into the language best understood In addition, Skype’s Translator app comes Translator and it works in a way that it by the users on the other end. Currently the in with on-screen text transcript when making converts spoken words into instant written supported languages are Spanish, French, a video call thus facilitating communication www.deafax.org text. Users on one end just communicate English, German, Italian and Mandarin. between the hearing party and the deaf and in their native languages and the speech is those having difficulty in hearing. Hearing Times Spring 2016 Fun 15 Events Wordsearch Saturday 12 March Roald Dahl Signed Stories Swishwiffling signed stories for all ages, deaf and hearing visitors: BSL signed talks about Roald Dahl’s life and stories, and signed storytelling from Revolting Rhymes through the day at the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire. For more information visit www.roalddahl.com

Sunday 3 April Deaf Climbing UK launch event Thought about trying rock climbing but don’t know where to start? Climbing already and want to take it to the next level? Join in from 12:00 to 16:00 at the UK’s international competition venue for a fun filled day of learning, living, and loving climbing! For more information visit www.deafclimbing.co.uk

Thursday 7 April Annie The Musical - BSL performance Starring Birds of a Feather’s Lesley Joseph as the Tyrannical Miss Hannigan. With its award-winning book and score, this stunning new production includes the unforgettable songs Hard Knock Life, Easy Street, I Don’t Need Anything But You and Tomorrow. For more information visit www.deaffest.co.uk

Friday 6 May - Sunday 8 May Deaffest 2016 The UK’s leading Deaf-led film and arts Maze Sudoku festival. Get involved, book your stall, submit your film, exhibit your work or Medium Sudoku Puzzles 9 volunteer. www.printablesudoku99.com For more information visit www.deaffest.co.uk Medium

Sudoku Puzzle 5 4 9 2 Saturday 11 June 1 8 5 1 9 Pedal to the Pebbles Challenge yourself and cycle 45 miles 4 2 6 5 in a sponsored bike ride from Merstham

7 2 8 9 in Surrey to Hamilton Lodge School in

4 5 Brighton. For more information visit 9 4 www.hamiltonls.co.uk 5 9 6

8 6 2 3 7 Thursday 28 July - Sunday 31 July

1 2 6 7 3 Deaf Children CAN Listen and Talk; enjoy music;

sing and dance; attend their Easy Sudoku Puzzles 10 www.printablesudoku99.com local school . . . and achieve Sudoku 4 3 7 in every way! Puzzle Hard 2 Make it happen for your child:- 8 6 7 1 3 2 5 9 Sudoku Bring all the family to the DELTA Summer Puzzle 3 93 42 68 - in Worcester 1 9 3 7 2 8 5 8 For more information contact DELTA 7 6 5 on 0300 365 7200 or enquiries@ 7 6 deafeducation.org.uk or visit our 1 35 28 89 64 website: www.deafeducation.org.uk 2 8 97 3 1 5 76

7 3 6 1 8 4 2 Saturday 12 November Deaf Sports Personality of the Year 2016 82 5 1 2 13 Held annualy, this event celebrates deaf 3 5 7 4 sporting talents across the UK and those 5 4 1 7 9 8 3 who train and support them.

For more information visit

www.dspy.co.uk

Sudoku Puzzle 9 8 7 2 3 6 2 5 6 9 8 2 4 1 7 8 4 5 6 3 9 4 8 7 6 1 4 1 3 6 5 3 1 2 6 4 5 8 7 3 2 16 Sport Hearing Times Spring 2016 Preston trampoline club helping Football coach wins Halifax Giving Extra Award Andrew Palmer is one of 66 local winners from across the UK recognised by the local panel of the Halifax Giving Extra Awards for setting up deaf people get into sport Peterborough United deaf football team, the only club in the country that A top trampoline club is jumping for joy after becoming the first sports club offers deaf children of all ages the chance to play football in the country to be awarded a quality assurance mark by UK Deaf Sport for their work to help deaf people get into sport

Preston City Trampoline Club (PCTC) has been given DEAFinitely Inclusive accreditation status by UK Deaf Sport, after completing one of the National Disability Sport Organisation’s schemes.

The Blackpool Road club has been recognised for their training in working with deaf people, for understanding the challenges of adapting to accommodate people with hearing problems and helping Ray Wort, Caitlyn Yates, Symone Lishman, Jake Fisher, Jack Edmondson, Sean Dean create opportunities for deaf people of all Andrew Palmer, surrounded by his team, being presented with his community award ages to play, coach and volunteer. access gymnastics and trampolining here at the club starting with an open day.” Now in its third year, the Halifax Giving Maria Hills, Community Ambassador for Fiona Robson from PCTC said, “We are Extra Awards reward people who bring Halifax Cambridgeshire region commented, thrilled. We have learnt so much about what UK Deaf Sport participation officer, Clive communities together and help them thrive. “The work that Andrew has done for the we can do to minimise the barriers and be Breedon, said, “The club has really embraced Each year charity fundraisers, sports community is outstanding and truly deserves as inclusive as possible. Our plan is to use the process, developed their awareness of coaches, community volunteers and many this recognition. He has truly gone the extra our new-found knowledge and expertise to the challenges deaf people can face and more are recognised for the contribution they mile for people in our community – and we support deaf people in our local community implemented changes to address barriers.” make. are delighted to recognise this.”

Nominated by Ruth Godden, the sign The 66 local Halifax Giving Extra Award Deaf children from west London schools language interpreter at the football club, winners will each receive £300 in Supercheque Andrew has gone above and beyond for the vouchers. There will also be seven regional battle it out in mini Paralympics-style event people in his community. winners selected from these community Deaf and hearing impaired pupils from Brent and Hounslow schools champions, revealed in the coming weeks, participated in the inaugural London Deaf Panathlon Challenge Since setting up the club three years ago, who will receive a grant of up to £5k to make a A group of 17 pupils, aged four to 11, Andrew has spent much of his spare time further difference in their community. from Kingsbury Green School in Brent , and coaching, organising and encouraging boys nine pupils, aged eight to 11, from Norwood and girls of all ages to get involved and play Nominations for the Halifax Giving Extra Green School in Hounslow, were among 50 football. The club’s activities have improved Awards, in association with Global’s Capital primary school children battling it out in the sports skills, confidence, social skills and and Heart brands, were made online or in first London Deaf Panathlon Challenge on positive feelings of wellbeing for those Halifax branches throughout October and Thursday 21 January). involved. Without Andrew’s efforts the club November 2015, and the judging of over a would not be possible. thousand nominations took place in January The multi-sport contest involved students 2016. London Deaf Panthlon Challenge - Children from five schools who participated, in mixed from Kingsbury Green School Andrew said, “I believe that all deaf children teams alongside peers from Islington and should have the chance to enjoy sport, and For more information visit Haringey, in boccia, new age kurling, table school teams, but none are involved in deaf I’m just happy that we’ve given some of them www.halifax.co.uk/givingextraawards cricket, polybat and athletic field events. activities other than through Panathlon. This the chance to do this.” #GivingExtraBack competition means that all of our children can Children played in mixed school teams join in with something and everyone’s had a which allowed them to develop team building, chance.” UK Deaf Sport appoints Chef de Mission communication and leadership skills, whilst for Deaflympics 2017 getting to know other deaf or hearing- A team of deaf students from Oak Lodge impaired young people. School in Wandsworth, trained as Panathlon UK Deaf Sport (UKDS) has appointed Chris Ratcliffe as Great Britain’s Chef de Mission for the 2017 Summer Deaflympics in Samsun, Turkey young leaders, officiated the event at Sobell Head of Centre for the Deaf at Norwood Leisure Centre in Islington. Ratcliffe has a long association with deaf Olympic Committee-sanctioned event at Green School, Vhaire Stewart, said, “We’re sport and the Deaflympics having competed which deaf athletes compete at an elite level. the only hearing-impaired resource within the Panathlon COO Tony Waymouth said, for Britain in water polo at the 1985 Games in borough so we don’t often get the chance to “The multi-sport event was another step Los Angeles. He returned to the Deaflympics Held every four years, it is the longest mix with other schools apart from at events forward in Panathlon’s deaf programme as Britain’s Chef de Mission in 2005, when running multi-sport event excluding the like these. in London. The chance to participate in a the 20th edition of the Games was held in Olympics themselves. The event in Samsun team alongside peers from other schools Melbourne. will be the 23rd edition of the Summer “The kids love Panathlon. There are enhances the competition and provides a raft Deaflympic Games, an event first held in lots of benefits: they enjoy it, it raises their of opportunities for these children.” Ratcliffe currently works for the English Paris in 1924. confidence, they are doing something active Federation of Disability Sport as Director of and they are getting to mix with other deaf The Panathlon Foundation is a national Development. Britain’s team of 49 finished 33rd in the children. It’s very good.” sports charity for disabled young athletes, overall medals table at Sofia 2013, winning which expanded to include a deaf programme He will take up his Chef de Mission role in a total of five medals - two silvers and three The event was part of Panathlon charity’s in November 2013, and is expected to a voluntary capacity, joining Britain’s 2017 bronzes. expanding deaf programme that will involve provide sports opportunities to 600 deaf and Deaflympics team ahead of the Games over 600 young people this year. Marianne hearing-impaired youngsters this year. which are scheduled to take place from July The last gold medal won by Britain in the Haylett, teacher for the deaf at Kingsbury 18 to 30. Deaflympics came at Tapei 2009, when Green School, commented, “Our children The London Deaf Panathlon programme is tennis players Catherine Fletcher and really enjoy Panathlon. They do PE at supported by the City Bridge Trust and the The Deaflympics, previously known as the Anthony Sinclair claimed the mixed doubles school and some are able to take part in Ovingdean Hall Foundation. World Games for the Deaf, is an International title. © Copyright Hearing Times 2016 | Published by Hearing Times C.I.C. | The Lansbury Estate | 102 Lower Guildford Road | Woking | Surrey | GU21 2EP | Tel: 0845 2930688 Printed by Mortons Print Ltd | Newspaper House | Morton Way | Horncastle | Lincolnshire | LN9 6JR | Tel: 01507 523456