A pilot scheme called ‘Deafness Connects U: Developing deaf connections in South Gloucestershire’ has been launched.
The initiative will include essions for the deaf and hard of hearing community, held in venues around South Glos and based on the five Steps to Wellbeing. The aim is to improve wellbeing across the deaf and hard of hearing community, through reducing isolation and the building of connections and community resilience.
December sees the celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and the Centre for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People will be providing a webinar for council staff covering deaf awareness.
Justin Smith, CEO of the Centre for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People, said: “[We are] delighted to be working in partnership with South Gloucestershire Council to deliver this exciting new project.
“We aim to reduce loneliness and isolation by bringing deaf and hard of hearing residents together by providing a series of wellbeing events and activities. The project will also bring long-term benefits by acting as a bridge between deaf residents and the council through information sharing, and by improving awareness and access to services.”