People in the Deaf community will now be able to access dementia support more easily, thanks to a partnership between Alzheimer’s Society and the British Deaf Association.
The charities have worked together to make Alzheimer’s Society’s support services, such as its Dementia Support Line, more accessible.
A SignVideo option on Alzheimer’s Society’s website links the user up with a British Sign Language interpreter who can then live translate information from the Dementia Support Line team.
Each week, around 1,500 people reach out to Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line for help. Expert Dementia Advisers provide personalised support to people facing the daily challenges of life with dementia, signposting callers to a network of emotional support, practical advice and a community that understands their situation.
Paul Reynolds, Associate Director of Commercial and Partnerships, at Alzheimer’s Society, said: “Receiving a dementia diagnosis can be a worrying time but Alzheimer’s Society is here to help guide people from every community to the care, support and treatment that is so vital.
“We know that people in the Deaf community are often overlooked when organisations are designing their services, leaving them to depend on family or friends to help them access support.
“That’s why we’re committed to making our resources more inclusive and accessible – ensuring no one faces dementia alone, regardless of how they communicate.”
Rebecca Mansell, Chief Executive Officer of the British Deaf Association (BDA), said: “We are proud to partner with Alzheimer’s Society to raise awareness of dementia within the Deaf community and ensure vital information is accessible in British Sign Language (BSL). This initiative was originally led and developed by BDA Scotland, whose outstanding work on dementia laid the foundation for this collaboration.
“This important partnership aims to build a strong bridge between Alzheimer’s Society and the Deaf community – improving access to information, support, and understanding of dementia. It comes at a crucial time, as we work together across the UK to make a meaningful difference.”
As part of their partnership with British Deaf Association, Alzheimer’s Society will also run Deaf awareness sessions for their Dementia Advisers and will continue to create advice videos using British Sign Language.
It will take a society to defeat dementia. With your help we can continue to provide advice and support through our support services. To donate or find out more, visit alzheimers.org.uk/Christmas or call Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
