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If however BSL is your first language please click on the link in the menu to visit our YouTube page for BSL videos for specific information. We will soon be adding BSL videos to our website to provide you with the information that works for you. Watch this space!
Keeping Our Community Safe. Please click to learn about a recent fraud alert, with BSL Video...
Fraud alert on social media!
We feel really sad that we have to announce this, but please be aware that there are people using social media claiming they work at The Deafness Resource Centre. They are also using the charity logos.
The names we are aware of are Claudia P Stanley and Mercy Cabrera – they DO NOT WORK at the Deafness Resource Centre now or in the past, please do not respond to any messages from this person.
If anyone claims to work for the DRC that you do not already know, please check with us first:
email: enquiries@deafnessresourcecentre.org or speak to a staff member you already know.
We provide support for D/deaf people in St Helens, Halton & Knowsley, for children, young people, families and adults across Merseyside
We aim to empower, support and enhance the quality of life for D/deaf people
Home page information in BSL
Help support the work of the Deafness Resource Centre
We need your help so we can continue the valuable work the Deafness Resource Centre provides for D/deaf people.
If you would like to make a donation, please click on the Just Giving link.
Welcome to The Deafness Resource Centre in St Helens
At The Deafness Resource Centre (DRC), we are dedicated to providing support, resources, and services to individuals who are D/deaf*, as well as their families and friends. Our centre is a hub of information, assistance, & community for the D/deaf population in St. Helens, Halton, Knowsley and the surrounding areas.
Our mission is to empower individuals with hearing loss to live fulfilling and independent lives. We understand the unique challenges faced by the D/deaf community, and we strive to break down barriers and promote inclusivity in all aspects of life.
What sets us apart is our team of experienced professionals who are passionate about making a difference. Our staff members are both D/deaf and hearing, who are also fluent in sign language and have extensive knowledge and expertise in various areas related to deafness. Whether you need advice on communication strategies, assistive technology, or access to education and employment opportunities, our team is here to help.
*D/deaf is a collective term used to describe people who are profoundly deaf, deafened, hard of hearing or deafblind.
Below is a brief overview of the deaf services and support we offer. Please click on each section to learn more
Information and Advice
We provide up-to-date information on a wide range of topics related to deafness, including communication methods, technology, legal rights, and more. Our knowledgeable staff is available to answer any questions you may have and offer guidance tailored to your specific needs.
Deaf Awareness, Training, BSL
We offer Accredited Level 1 and Level 2 British Sign Language Courses and D/deaf Awareness Training sessions to enhance communication skills, and promote D/deaf awareness. Training is available to individuals, organisations, school and groups. We also offer bespoke D/deaf Awareness Training so please contact us with your requirements. Read more here.
Communication Support
We offer sign language interpretation services for various situations, such as medical appointments, general meetings, specialist i.e. legal, mental health settings, school settings and conferences. Our interpreters are fully qualified, experienced interpreters and ensure effective communication between D/deaf and hearing individuals. Read more here.
We also offer Free equipment and up to date technology aids to support you in your independence. Please contact us if you would like an Assessment. Read more here.
Social & Recreational Activities
We believe in the importance of building a strong community. That’s why we organise social events, outings, and recreational activities where individuals with hearing loss can connect, share experiences, and have fun together. Read more here.
Children and Family Services
We believe that every child deserves a world of opportunity. Our dedicated Children and Families Team is committed to providing unparalleled support and resources for families with D/deaf children or CODA’s (Children of Deaf Adults). Read more here.
Deaf Advocacy and Support
We advocate for the rights and needs of the D/deaf community, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected. Read more here.
We also offer support groups for Tinnitus and Hard of Hearing Social Groups. Read more here.
“DRC aim to deliver high quality services that empower, enable and support the D/deaf community”
How many people did we support across St Helens, Halton and Knowsley during 2022-2023?
Let us show you…
Advocacy Interventions
People attended Tinnitus Support Groups
Interpreter Bookings
Families received indepth Family Support
People received specialised equipment
2-18year olds participated in Ican Sign Programme
Families that completed 6 week Family Sign Course
%
Pass rate of students who completed Level 1 BSL
People attended Hard of Hearing Support Groups
Deaf Awareness Sessions delivered
“Hi I have just got back from the deaf awareness half day delivered by staff at the Deafness Resource Centre. I just want to say it is the best and most valuable 4 hrs I have ever spent in a classroom. The delivery was absolutely brilliant. I can’t say I will be the most prolific signer the trust will have but I will certainly continue to practise it and hopefully be able to welcome patients from the deaf community who choose to sign in their own language.
Many thanks”
Staff Nurse – Whiston Hospital
Latest News
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It's been unveiled that this year's Great British Bake Off will feature Tasha, a...
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Breaking barriers and building bonds: Young people dive into learning British Sign Language at...
Booking for our Events just got easier !!
Booking on our events has just got easier!! All you need to do is click on the link below...
Do you want to Learn BSL? New Level 1 & 2 courses start this Autumn
Do you want to learn a new skill or build on what you have already learnt? We still have places...
World Day of the Deaf 2023
The World Day of the D/deaf is observed on the last Sunday of September, which falls on September...
How the BSL GCSE will help break down barriers for D/deaf people
We believe that the forthcoming BSL GCSE holds the potential to bridge the gap between the...
Pilkington’s Angling Association Reels in £830 for DRC in Charity Fishing Event!
On Saturday, September 2nd, the dedicated members of Pilkington's Angling Association cast their...
Attention Young Carers: Great Opportunity!
The Deafness Resource Centre will be hosting a Basic Sign Language Workshop on the 21st of...
Behind the Silence: Why D/deaf children are falling behind in early years
“We’re failing deaf children” - that’s the blunt conclusion from the National Deaf...
Direct Payment support – Nathan’s Journey – Watch his video
Watch Nathan sign his journey here: In October 2021, Deafness Resource Centre were...
Phoenix Moon Market 30th Sept 23
Halloween Party 25th Oct 2023
Christmas Bingo 17th Nov 2023
Christmas Fayre 25.11.2023
BSL Courses
Level 1 course starting 3rd October – New spaces now available
Level 2 starting 28th Sept. New spaces available – Places go fast, so please book soon.
Interpreter & Communication Service
Our Language Service Professionals are experienced in the following settings: medical appointments, general meetings, specialist …
Downloadable files and resources
From referral forms, application forms, resources and more…
If you live in St Helens, Halton or Knowsley, you may be eligible to receive free equipment
Would you like to learn British Sign Language?
Wish to know more about our Deaf Awareness Training Courses
Watch Me…
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