Deafblind UK

This Barbie doll will come with a cane and dark glasses and will feature textured clothing so children who are blind or have low vision, can feel the outfits she's wearing. 💜

On the box she comes in, Barbie will be written in Braille, which is language made of raised dots that blind people can feel to read things.

First ever 'Blind Barbie' doll released by toy-maker Mattel Mattel has released its first ever blind Barbie doll

Special offer ⭐🤩

Our caravan is available from Friday 26th July until Friday 2nd August, for just £400.00 as a late booking!

If anyone is interested please call the helpline 0800 132320.

See it here 👉

Holidays | Deafblind UK We all need a break sometimes, but we know that for some, staying away from home is not that easy. Our self catering caravan provides a home from home break at heavily discounted rates. Conifer Court

If you are deafblind there is a good chance you will be eligible for a blue badge. 🩵♿

Eligibility is decided by your local council who will assess to determine if you are entitled to one, in some circumstances you may automatically receive a blue badge, such as if you are registered blind (severely sight impaired) or cannot walk more than 50 metres.

Gathering evidence and filling out forms, or even knowing where to start can be tricky for some people, so you have the option for someone to help you with the application process, including the helpline team at Deafblind UK!

If you would like to find out more or get help with your blue badge application then get in touch with the helpline team on 0800 132 320.

Learn more 👉 deafblind.org.uk/blue-badges/

Hey! Did you get a ballot place?

If you’re one of the lucky ones who has secured your own place in the London Landmarks Half Marathon 2025, we’d love you to run in aid of Deafblind UK. Every £25 raised for your challenge could provide another hour of specialist wellbeing support for someone who is deafblind.

If you didn't bag a ballot place, then fear not, as you can still run for Deafblind UK and we would love to have your support for people who live in the UK with dual sensory loss! 💜

Hit the link for full details and to apply!! https://deafblind.org.uk/london-landmarks-half-marathon-2025/

The LLHM 2025 2nd Chance Ballot results have now been announced!

Make sure to check your email and junk/spam folder, as the results will be making their way to your inbox soon. If you don't receive your result right away, please don't worry as they are sent out in batches. Kindly wait until tomorrow morning and if you still haven't received your result don't hesitate to get in touch with our team who will be happy to help.

Thank you to everyone who entered. If you weren't lucky enough to secure a place you can still take part by running for one of our incredible charity partners at http://www.llhm.co.uk/charity-places 💛

🎱Snookerthon Fundraiser! 🎱

“My late father-in-law Bob Short was cared for in his late stage of life by the wonderful Havens team and my late mother Mina, who died at the age of 101 and welcomed the attention and compassion from the befrienders of Deafblind UK. My aim with the help of my colleagues is to raise much-needed funds for both of these deserving charities.”

You can support Ian Pettey who will be playing snooker for 24 hours by clicking here-

24 Hour Charity SNOOKERTHON - GiveWheel My late father in law Bob was cared for in his late stage of life by the wonderful Havens team and additionally my late mother Mina who died at the age of 101 welcomed the attention and compassion from the befrienders of Deaf Blind UK. My aim with the help of my colleagues is to raise much needed fu...

“I was not a runner until September 2016, when I was challenged to run the London Marathon. Nothing unusual about that, except at the time I was a 59 year old registered blind guide dog owner!”

Helen had lived with hearing loss her whole life and was diagnosed with macular degeneration in 2020, now at age 67 she is writing her second book ‘Blind Tri’ all while preparing for a triathlon, half marathon and The London Marathon in 2025!

With the attitude of ‘What can I do to help myself’ rather than ‘What tablet can I take’ Helen’s making macular degeneration shake in its boots and defining her life instead of the condition defining it for her!

To read Helens' incredible story follow the link!
https://deafblind.org.uk/running-blind-helens-story-of-deafblindness-running-and-fundraising/

This isn’t just any helpline, this is the Deafblind UK helpline! We know a thing or two about living with deafblindness, so if you need support, you’re in safe hands with us! 🤝

We often talk about our helpline, but we want you to know the breadth of what it covers and all the ways it can provide information, assistance and support for people who are deafblind and their carers. Here are some of the things available to you…

💜 Carer Support
💜 Blue badges
💜 Audiology appointments
💜 Applying for PIP
💜 Disability grants
💜 Deafblind assessments
💜 Benefits
💜 Registering sightloss
💜 Problems with hearing aids

Make sure you check out our posts over the next few weeks to see more details on exactly how we can help with the above services.

In the meantime, our website can provide loads of info on different topics, just head over to deafblind.org.uk to take a look!

For more info send us a DM or,
Call - 0800 132 320
Text - 07903572885
Email - [email protected]

Our Family Information Day is a free day for your whole family, siblings included! We host a range of activities for children aged 0-17, ensuring they are having a blast and leaving you free to join the expert talks and workshops. As well as giving you time to meet other families.

Join us in Birmingham on October 5th!
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/UKUKinfo24

Cure Usher Molly Watt living with Ushers Syndrome Usher Syndrome Ireland Thomas Pocklington Trust Guide Dogs UK VICTA UK LOOK - supporting families living with visual impairment Deafblind UK Deafblind Scotland Retina UK Sense

In 2011, Mohammed's life changed forever.

Diagnosed with a rare type of cataracts, leading to a loss of sight and a series of hardships, Mohammed faced harassment and discrimination at work, feeling hopeless and alone. Just when things seemed darkest, a call from Deafblind UK brought him comfort and support.

"Deafblind UK means everything to me. They’re more than just a charity; they’re a family that has always been there, supporting me through my darkest hours."

The emotional and practical support after Mohammed’s diagnosis gave him hope and reason to keep fighting. 💜 Read his full story and others on our blog page!

If you’re struggling, please don't hesitate to get in touch, we would love to hear from you and provide you with the support you need.

Call - 0800 132 320
Text - 07903572885
Email - [email protected]
https://deafblind.org.uk/get-support/

Calling all adrenaline junkies - could you brave a tandem skydive challenge for Deafblind UK? 🪂 ✈️ 💜

The sky is the limit in this exhilarating experience of a lifetime that will see you freefall from 12,000ft at speeds up to 125mph before parachuting safely back down to the ground, guided by an experienced and qualified instructor. We work with 20 skydiving centres across the UK, so it’s easy to find a tandem jump near you.

Whether you’re looking to feel a true sense of freedom, tick something off your bucket list or take extreme measures to conquer a fear of heights, you can do so while raising much-needed funds for Deafblind UK.

Take the leap and find out more about our tandem skydives here: deafblind.org.uk/skydive-for-deafblind-uk/

Time for another post where we shine the spotlight on people who are doing great things to change the lives of people who are deafblind! 💜

This week we celebrate the fabulous Carolyn, our School Liaison Officer who is always busy working with schools across the country delivering our Education Project! This project is so valued and important that it was recognised and shortlisted for The Charity Awards 2024 under the Disability category.

Carolyn was recently given an ‘Agents of Change’ award by one of the Primary Academies she works with, recognising the difference she is making to the community and society around her! 👏 Congratulations Carolyn!

This is a common misconception, that being deafblind means no vision or hearing, but it’s simply not true and a potential barrier preventing people from seeking help.

This assumption can also impact how society treats people who are deafblind, which is why awareness is so important (and why we need you to help us spread it). Members like Christine, who hadn't used a phone before the call with her telephone befriender, have regained regular social interaction leading to better well-being by discovering our services!

Thanks to email befriending and support from our helpline experts, Christine's world opened back up and she's been able to keep her independence and social connections. Her journey shows how powerful community and support can be, helping her stay engaged with the people and the things she loves.

As Christine beautifully said, "Being involved with Deafblind UK has given me opportunities that I would not have had otherwise. I am grateful to have had the chance to talk about myself, to have been given a voice and to express myself in ways that were just not available to people like me a few years ago."

If you would like support please get in touch. Let's get you feeling like you again.💜

Call - 0800 132 320
Text - 07903572885
Email - [email protected]
https://deafblind.org.uk/get-support/

Read Christine’s story and more like hers here https://deafblind.org.uk/stories/

Oh, what a night!
We were so proud to be a finalist at the prestigious , it means such a lot that our work to support young people who are deafblind has been recognised.

We were honoured to share the evening with some truly outstanding charities that are creatively and compassionately making the world a better place for so many people.

Massive thanks to Civil Society Media for a fabulous awards ceremony and to at ScottishPower for making our project possible.

We hope everyone has a wonderful evening at this years The Charity Awards, including Daisy the guide dog 🐾💜

🐾🐾 Daisy taking on the London Underground before The Charity Awards!

In this week’s family blog, Skye shares how she learned to stand up for herself when she was being bullied.

"Bullying, unfortunately, happens more often to deaf people, and deaf students are more at risk of being bullied than hearing people at school.

I have been called, named, and assumed many things when I was at school, whether that was ‘stupid’, ‘incompetent’ or ‘dumb’ and many more. People assumed that because I have a hearing loss that I wasn’t valued the same as others. People seemed to see me as an easy target to bully and pick on.

At first, I was too scared to stand up for myself, thinking that it would make situations worse. It took time for me to stand up for myself and make it known that it was not OK to call me these names.

There were many times after school where I would run to my sister crying or cry in my room by myself because I felt unworthy and alone. I thought that I deserved to be bullied and that it was OK, but it's never OK. When I turned to a trusted teacher and my sister, I learnt that I was not alone and that they were there to help me.

Bullying is not OK and is not acceptable. You must remember that you are worth more than what they're saying to you. Bullies want to feel better by bringing others down.

There is no reason and no excuse for them to be mean to you, and I strongly advise you to talk to someone you fully trust so they can help you.

My top tips for dealing with bullying:

- Speak to teacher, parent, friend or someone you trust if you’re being bullied.

- Keep a record so you can show someone how often this is happening.

- Try not to react. I know it's easier said than done, but when bullies are given a reaction, they are more likely to continue the act.

- Contact the National Deaf Children's Society if you're worried. They will be able to help guide you and give advice.

You are not alone. You are allowed to stand up for yourself as this is your life, and you deserve all the happiness in the world.

Here is a lovely quote I found for you: "If I were a flower… I would be a sunflower. To always follow the sun, turn my back to darkness, stand proud, tall and straight even with my head full of seeds." (Pam Stewart)

Stay kind,

Skye x

---

Our bloggers share their stories and experiences to help other families, so please be kind and respectful when commenting. 💜

Our education project has been nominated for the Disability Award at the Charity Awards 2024 and we’re feeling very proud to have got this far! 🤩

The prestigious award ceremony is happening this evening and you’re invited to watch the event live online with us! You just need to register using the link…

👉 https://the-charity-awards.evessiocloud.com/thecharityawards2024/en/page/awards-room #/auth/login

You can learn more about our education project here: https://deafblind.org.uk/for-professionals/schools/

The Charity Awards 2024 - awards-room The Charity Awards 2024 - awards-room

Ride the UK’s biggest closed-road cycle sportive, Ford RideLondon Essex 100, for Deafblind UK on Sunday 25 May 2025! 🚵🎽

Jump in the saddle and join over 25,000 like-minded cyclists for a unique opportunity to cycle a century (100 miles) on traffic-free roads through the heart of London and the beautiful Essex countryside.

𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗳𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗨𝗞 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 🤝

You can secure your place on the start line next May for just £25, and a commitment to raise at least £495 in sponsorship for Deafblind UK.

But hurry, places are limited so apply today at: deafblind.org.uk/ford-ridelondon-essex-100-2025/

Go the distance for and make a big difference to people living with deafblindness.

Click below to read what support is available to you at the polling station including tactile voting devices, magnifiers, large print ballot papers and assistance with marking your ballot.

Voting - Sense It’s your democratic right to be able to cast your vote in elections. On this page find out about accessible voting and asking for support at polling stations.

Deaf Youth Club Summer Program is back!

The Big Picnic
Victoria Tunnel Tour
Bike repair and Pottery workshops
Trip to Alton Towers
Visit the Fire Station - meet the crew!

*all activities are subject to change

Interested? Still have more questions you want answered? Contact Kirsty (Youth Worker) on 07512 645470 or email [email protected]

For more details/to book – scan the QR code or click the link:

https://forms.office.com/e/25MpwfjHZY

😉 See you there!

Sunderland Deaf Society

So, July is here. Just a gentle reminder that there has been some further changes to metro bus services in Belfast from 1 July and train services between Newry and Belfast from 3 July.
Translinkare asking passengers to plan ahead before travelling in case some detail of your route has changed. Check the Translink website or journey planner for the latest before you travel and allow extra time for your journey.
Just contact the Translink call centre on 02890 666630 or take a look on their website where you can get accessibility advice, read the latest updates on transport network changes and stay informed about the Belfast Grand Central Station project. Visit www.translink.co.uk
If you’d like to speak to RNIB’s Campaigns and Policy team, just message this page or email [email protected].

Translink: Train line from Lisburn to Belfast closed over summer A revised NI Railways timetable will be in operation from Wednesday 3 July until early Autumn.

Taylor is about to take on the Peak District Ultra Challenge 2024 to support people who are deafblind! 👏⛰️
If you would like to support Taylor by donating, click here - https://www.justgiving.com/page/taylor-deafblinduk-fundraiser



P.S. - If you are up for the challenge of a lifetime you can see what fundraising opportunities you can choose from here - https://deafblind.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise/

Taylor's fundraiser for Deafblind UK Help Taylor DK raise money to support Deafblind UK

Read Sophie's story below and why she is taking to the skies to support people living with deafblindness. 💜🪂

Sophie's fundraiser for Deafblind UK Help Sophie Belsey raise money to support Deafblind UK

The Positive Role Model Award for Age is proudly sponsored by The Open University ! The incredible
individuals who have reached the final shortlist for the Positive Role Model Award for Age are:

Richie Bow-Grace
Fredi Nwaka
Seren Otters
Rossino Griffin
Ava Joliffe
Lauren Wyatt
Lisa Mason
Theo Sankson

Congratulations to you all! We look forward to welcoming you to The National Diversity Awards in
October

The Positive Ageing Small Grants Programme 24-25 is now open for applications!

Constituted/ non-constituted, non-profit making community/ voluntary sector organisations/ groups supporting those aged 60+ can apply for grants of up to £500. Grants should be used to develop programmes for older people to be active and to improve their physical activity while also providing opportunities for social connection.

Applications are available from:

Fermanagh and Omagh:
Contact the South West Age Partnership by emailing Allison Forbes on [email protected] or calling 07955 787456

Closing date is Friday 23rd August 2024. Please see the attached flyer for more information.

Did you know that all polling stations are required to have a tactile voting device, large print ballot papers, magnifiers, lighting and additional support if you need it?

As we approach the end of , we'd like to say thank you to every single person who has posted, shared, written and even had a conversation about deafblindness this week. So, let's not limit it to this week, lets keep the conversation going!

Every day, we continue to support and advocate for people who are deafblind and will use every tool in our kit to fight for a truly inclusive society.

Deafblindness can happen to any of us. We can develop conditions over time or suffer trauma through accidents which have the scope to change our lives forever by altering our sight and hearing. We are here for everyone affected by deafblindness, and their support networks.

But, we couldn’t do what we do without help from people like you. From spreading awareness and educating our peers, to the incredible fundraising that so many of you do. Your support allows us to give people who are deafblind the help they need.

So thank you, thank you to everyone who supported and please continue to learn about sight and hearing loss, raise awareness and be mindful that people you walk past or talk to in everyday life may just be, deafblind.

The red and white striped cane is a symbol of deafblindness.

Many people who are deafblind choose to use a cane to navigate their surroundings independently.

This cane aids mobility and signals to others that a person is deafblind, possibly requiring additional time when crossing roads or navigating obstacles.

If you encounter a pedestrian with a red and white cane while driving, it's crucial to understand that they may have both sight and hearing loss.

So don't be a doughnut honking your horn and shouting, be patient and understanding creating a safer shared space. 🚗❤️

Why not call into Nicholls MACE, Dungannon Road, Cookstown (Between ASDA and Loughry roundabout) between 10am-2pm today and get your blood pressure checked with NI Chest Heart and Stroke Blood Pressure Pop Up stand?

All are welcome to visit and collect from our School Uniform Projects!

When you arrive to one of our School Uniform Projects, you will be greeted and asked for your school, and the items you are looking for, that's it! THERE IS NO CRITERIA!

Limavady Primary Care GP Based Social Work Team are delighted to launch their new ‘Roe Valley Carers Hub’.

📍Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre
📆 Starting on Friday 28th June 2024
🕚 11.00am – 12.00pm

The Hub will take place on the last Friday of the month thereafter.

If you are interested in attending the Roe Valley Carers Hub please contact your GP Practice Social Work Team or drop in on the day.

Read more ▶ https://westerntrust.hscni.net/new-roe-valley-carers-hub-launched-at-roe-valley-arts-and-culture-centre/

As the voice for people living with in the UK, we visited the UK House of Commons yesterday to discuss the work we are all doing together. On a mission to ensure people with sensory loss are fairly and equally represented and always included throughout our society.

Deafblind UK is working hard to
💜 Aid in pioneering research
💜 Break barriers
💜 Cultivate changes