Dorset mum calls for free sign language lessons for parents/carers of deaf children

Available for over a year

A Dorset mum of two deaf children is calling for better provisions for Hearing Impaired and deaf children in Dorset and nationally. For example Learning British Sign Language starts at around £500 for a level one course, and to become "fluent", it can cost thousands. Yasmin Brammer Thompson says it's not just the cost, but the accessibility to a deaf community that's lacking in the county as there are currently no specialist bases or schools for deaf children in Dorset. In a statement Dorset council said: ..."children with a hearing impairment are supported to attend their local school and there are no plans to re-introduce a specialist resource base for deaf pupils. The Hearing Support Service supports Deaf children across Dorset and BCP councils and comprises a team of 12 including Qualified Teachers of the Deaf, a Specialist Teaching Assistant/Audiology Technician and a Sign Language Support Worker. The service works with families and schools providing practical advice on all aspects of language and communication, listening devices, assessment and training.’