Deaf Choices UK supports children in Devon & Cornwall

The Clare Milne Trust is delighted to support a wide variety of charities and not-for-profit organizations, with our focus on helping those living with disabilities in Devon and Cornwall. Our trustees supported Deaf Choices UK with a grant for their ‘ACTIVE’ project, which supports deaf children aged 0–18 by fostering confidence, inclusion, and literacy through a variety of physical, social, emotional, and educational activities. These activities promote British Sign Language (BSL) and Cued Speech (CS). A six-week online introduction to these languages for families, along with four family activity days at local attractions, were arranged to create enriching experiences for deaf children and their siblings. These events strengthened family connections, communication, and promoted inclusion across the board.

Their collaboration with Plymouth Deaf Choices (PDC) worked with 34 families, benefiting 57 children, aged 3 to 15 years.

The coffee mornings have proven to be especially successful, creating a supportive community for families to share experiences and build understanding. One grandmother shared, “V loves to come along, as this is the only group she attends where there are other deaf children. This group offers V a real experience of inclusion.” Similarly, a parent of four-year-old twins with complex needs and deafness expressed how the group gave them the opportunity to bring both children together, which had a positive impact on their self-confidence.

Five families engaged in one-to-one sessions with our Regional Choice Advisor (RCA), where they learned how to integrate CS and BSL for total communication. This training has helped families better navigate communication challenges, improving their access to the English language and providing essential parenting support.

The outcomes of their efforts have been remarkable. A mother commented, “Cued Speech has made a huge impact on our family and L’s potential. Since we started cueing, we’ve seen a lot of progress. L is now very sociable and happy, and we believe she is absorbing English through CS.” Additionally, E, a four-month-old baby with complex needs, showed great progress in his responsiveness to sound and communication skills after six months. The positive changes in participation and literacy have been significant across the board.

Our Sound Explorers group has also been a key part of the project, helping to develop the children’s confidence through music and social interactions. This exceptional project has enriched children’s lives through cultural experiences, including theatre trips, family outings, and dance classes. By creating opportunities for families to participate together, we have seen an increase in parental engagement, with improved family interactions and the children’s growing self-confidence.