Does anyone have any horror stories about deaf UNawareness?

We have come up against all kinds of prejudices working in the deaf community, some of them from what many people would consider to be surprising sources. We have instances of medical professionals (and I use that term lightly!!) demanding that BSL interpreters only literally relay what is happening in an appointment, and not to interpret in any way.
We have had them being rude to both the deaf patients and the language service professional, and in many cases treating them in a patronising and antagonistic way.
In situations such as these, we will advocate that deaf awareness training is offered to the culprits in order that they will hopefully understand a little bit about what it must be like for the people that they are disrespecting.
We all know about the good work that is done during deaf awareness week, but do you think it is about time that we launch a deaf UNawareness week?
This might be a good way for the deaf community to come forward with stories to highlight the many instances when they are not treated in a respectful, informed and dignified manner.
So come on everyone, send me your stories of deaf UNawareness, and we will see if they can be used to help raise understanding of the issues that the deaf community are facing on a regular basis!!
You can read more about deaf awareness and British Sign Language in our website www.silent-sounds.co.uk

WEMBLEY student, Conrad Kaad, never let being deaf hold him back.

The 21-year-old motor mechanic, who studiesvehicle repair and paint at the College of NorthWest London, has been awarded for his sterlingwork at a special ceremony organised by thetechnology department.

Fijian-born Conad, of Manor Drive, Wembley, has been able to learn the art of paint refinishing thanks to the help of a specialist tutor who supports him during lessons in signlanguage.

Conrad was joined by his proud parents, Richard and Tina, at the awards ceremony . Tina made sure Conrad, who was born deaf, understood and enjoyed the evening by interpretingall the speeches in sign language for her son.

Tina learnt how to sign 12 years ago – also at the College of North West London. She believed it was the best way to communicate with Conrad in the future. Dad Richard doesnot sign but has his own ways of communicating with his son.

Conrad’s teacher, Stuart Dingwall, has also learnt the basics of signing to help Conrad following a deaf awareness course.Mr Dingwall said: "There are several hearingimpaired students in the faculty of technology. I communicate a bit in sign language but Conrad and I have almost developed our own language and if I sign something wrong, he lets me know. He’s got a great sense of humour.

Conrad got top marks in his course this year and hopes to work in a specialist garage that combines motor bike and car work once he qualifies.

Excerpt found on www.harrowobserver.co.uk

VRS technology for the UK deaf community?

Should the UK deaf community be given access to VRS (Video Relay Service) technology? In the USA, there is a levy charged on all mobile telecom bills to fund the provision of the VRS network, so video interpreting is available to the deaf at the cost to them of a normal phone call. Would the general UK public object to paying 1p extra per month on their mobile bills to fund this worthwhile and essential facility??
American VRS giant Sorenson Communications Inc. are launching a PR campaign to raise awareness of the poor communication facilities for deaf people in this country, no doubt with the intention of creating a new and profitable market for themselves!! Whilst their motives are no doubt money-oriented, the end result could be the opening up of new opportunities for deaf people and a greater access for them into the mainstream "hearing" community.
I'm sure that we all agree that this service could prove invaluable to tens of thousands of people in this country, but should this be something that should be brought in by a US corporation (who would profit from the revenue raised!!) or would our own government or perhaps a UK deaf charity be a more suitable organisation to provide this service and reap any benefits??

Would you like to learn British Sign Language?

Would you like to learn British Sign Language?  

Silent Sounds, the UK's leading deaf communication service, are now offering a two day course which will increase your understanding of the Deaf community, Deaf culture and the fourth official language of the U.K, British Sign Language.
You will learn:
• About the people who use BSL
• The ‘Two’ handed finger spelling alphabet
• A full range of useful BSL phrases
• How to work with other Language Service Professionals

This course is extremely interactive and is very much a “hands on” course, where you will learn in a fun Environment, by means of games, questions and answers and lots of practice.
This course assumes no prior knowledge and is perfect for total beginners.

After this course you will be able to progress to BSL Level 1 or Level 1 Certificate in Developing Awareness & Communication with Deaf and Deafblind people.

Call us for details of the next course at our High Wycombe training centre,

For more information please call 01494 796 030
Check our website www.silent-sounds.co.uk
or e-mail info@silent-sounds.co.uk