Barnsley information event to mark Deaf Awareness Week

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In support of Deaf Awareness Week 2014 the Barnsley sensory impairment service, in partnership with Barnsley Council and other specialist services are organising a hearing loss awareness event in Barnsley town centre on Wednesday 7 May.

Deaf Awareness Week runs from 19 – 25 May and this year’s theme is ‘equality in communication for all’. The aim of the week is to promote the work of organisations that support people with hearing loss and deafness and to help people find the right support to have a good quality of life and maintain independent living.

To help promote the services available to people in Barnsley the sensory impairment service, which is run by South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, will be holding a free information event and inviting other local organisations that help people.

The event is being held in Barnsley town centre (Cheapside area) between 10am and 2pm and anyone is welcome to come along and find out more about the help available and advice.

Organisations on hand to offer advice include Action on Hearing Loss, Barnsley DEAForum and hearing dogs. Representatives will be talking to people about their hearing difficulties, deafness and equipment that could help.

Moira Alton, Senior Rehabilitation Officer with Barnsley Sensory Impairment Services, said, “Around 10 million people in the UK are deaf or hard of hearing and this event is a great opportunity for people to find out what support is available. It is important that people know where they can find help both locally and nationally to support them in their everyday lives and to try ensure they don’t become socially isolated.”

“There will be lots of stalls where you can get information and advice about your hearing and how you can look after it and also what to do if you are struggling with your hearing or are deaf. Everyone is invited to come along and find out more whether for themselves or for someone they know.”

Barnsley information event to mark Deaf Awareness Week

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