Deaf children in Doncaster given tips on how to communicate effectively

The roadshow involves an eight ton lorry that turns into a classroom and is currently touring the UK delivering the charity’s information service to the doorstep of deaf children, their families and friends, and professionals who work with them.

The Roadshow team ran a range of workshops and demonstrated the latest equipment available including flashing doorbells, bluetooth neckloops (for iPods and mobile phones) and vibrating alarm clocks. They also gave advice on difficulties deaf children often face, like communication barriers and exclusion from activities.

Outreach officer for the National Deaf Children’s Society who is deaf himself and drives the Roadshow bus, Jamie Chivers, said: “Deaf children can do anything other children can do, given the right support. A visit from the Roadshow can make a real difference for a deaf child struggling with confidence, independence or communication and the more we can do to spread deaf awareness and information, the better.”

Three babies are born deaf every day and 90 percent of deaf children are born to hearing parents with little experience of deafness. The National Deaf Children’s Society provides free information and support to families with a deaf child and runs activities and events where deaf children and young people can learn new skills and gain confidence.

Since its launch, the Roadshow has travelled all over the UK visiting hundreds of venues, including mainstream and deaf schools, sensory support services, audiology centres and special events. The Roadshow has been completely revamped over the years from a purely technology-focused showcase to an all-encompassing information centre. A brand-new Roadshow bus hit the road in April 2016. For more call freephone helpline 0808 800 8880 or visit the www.ndcs.org.uk website.