I’M HEAR PROJECT CHESHIRE REACHES MIDWAY MILESTONE

DSN and BBC Children In Needs’ pioneering project for deaf children and their families has celebrated a midway milestone.

The I'm Hear! Project, now half way through its three-year funding cycle, is pleased to share noteworthy progress made in the support of deaf children and young people.

Project Workers Charlotte Stott and Lorraine Fletcher (pictured) have played instrumental roles in positively impacting the lives of over 30 children and their families across Cheshire over the past 18 months.

Since July 2022, the I'm Hear! Project has conducted home-based sessions, offering tailored resources and incorporating engaging games to create an enjoyable learning experience. Testimonials from participants underscore the project's effectiveness, with one parent expressing gratitude for the emotional support received during a challenging time.

Project Coordinator Pam Craige said:

"The dedication of our Project Workers has been key to the success of the I'm Hear! Project. Their personalised sessions have truly made a difference in the lives of the families we support."

Participants have reported newfound confidence and communication skills gained through the program, dispelling worries about the uncertainty of hearing loss.

The project's commitment extends beyond individual sessions, fostering community building through family events.

More than 80 children and young people have participated in activities at The Climbing Hut in Ellesmere Port, Gulliver's World in Warrington, and BeWILDerwood in South Cheshire, providing invaluable social interaction and support.

In October 2023, the project reintroduced monthly group activities for children under 8 at The Pettypool Trust in Sandiway, Northwich. The picturesque location, surrounded by nature, has welcomed 14 new members, with numbers expected to grow. A recent performance of 'Frozen,' featuring Elsa and Anna singing and signing the songs in BSL, was hailed as a tremendous success, bringing joy to all attendees.

Looking ahead, the I'm Hear! project plans to continue its monthly sessions at Pettypool and organise various family events throughout 2024, welcoming new members to join this supportive and empowering community.

Reflecting on the achievements of the I'm Hear! Project, Pam Craige added:

"The progress we've witnessed is a testament to the dedication of our team and the positive impact on the lives of the families we serve. We are excited for the continued success and growth of the project."

For more information about I’m Hear!, go to: 

www.dsnonline.co.uk.

DSN (Deafness Support Network)

Trustees of the Chester and North Wales Society for the Deaf, and of the Warrington and District Society for Deaf People, together made a landmark decision in 1976 to form the Cheshire Society for the Deaf, now operating as Deafness Support Network (DSN).

DSN is the service provider organisation for D/deaf* people in the county of Cheshire and the surrounding areas. These services are delivered under contract for Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, and Flintshire Councils.

*The word Deaf (with a capital D) is used to denote individuals whose first language is British Sign Language, whilst the term D/deaf refers to everyone with hearing loss: Deaf, deaf, deafened, D/deafblind and hard-of-hearing.

The local societies (Deaf Clubs) in Chester, Warrington and Vale Royal retained their independence and continue to thrive to this day, sharing premises with DSN. Each society serves a distinct local community but is strengthened by its partnership with DSN, which is able to innovate and develop, whilst acting as a guide and support for the local organisations.

Call: 

0333 220 5050

...or email: 

dsn@dsnonline.co.uk

www.dsnonline.co.uk

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Pictured - Charlotte Stott and Lorraine Fletcher support families with deaf children across Cheshire as part of the I'm Hear! Project.