Location
Community Group
Sign and be ‘Heard’
21 Garry Place
Troon
Ayrshire
KA10 7JD
07921658877
Overview
British Sign Language (BSL) is used by approximately 90,000 people in the UK. According to statistics, Action on Hearing Loss states ” There are more than 10 million people in the UK with some form of hearing loss, or one in six of the population, more than 800,000 people in the UK are severely or profoundly deaf.” BSL does not follow English order, but has its own syntax, grammar and vocabulary.
It is a visual language with time lines and spacial placement. BSL was recognised by the British Government in March 2003. There is still a long way to go to enforce BSL as a language within our nurseries and schools.
Politicians are 100% behind this vision and SABH is excited about the future improvement of communication between Deaf and Hearing within the communities of Scotland.
Deaf users of BSL are now included in nurseries and schools. It is the aim of SABH to encourage the use of BSL and also to be part of the curriculum so that vital communication is addressed.
By having staff trained it opens employment opportunities for users of BSL. Equality and inclusion are fundamental in the workplace and in everyday life. Communication is therefore critical to enable this to be a reality.
Service Description
Sign and be ‘Heard’ (SABH) was established as a charity in February 2014. Having worked in further education for a combination of 46 years, Marsie Stuart and Linda van Heerden, the Project Managers, identified the real need for this visual language to be learned by many. Users of British Sign Language (BSL) had been ignored for far too long; it was time to do something positive and make a difference.
SABH aims to have staff and the general public trained in British Sign Language (BSL). This will enhance communication with deaf users in their first language.
- This visual and British language also benefits sufferers of Aspergers’ Syndrome, ADHD, Autism and other communication difficulties.
- Flexible classes are offered to shift workers where and when desired.
- Tailor-made courses are adapted to suit the individuals or business.
- Bespoke handouts to suit are distributed.
- On-site training is offered if preferred.
- Community classes are offered.
- Voluntary post-course refreshers are part of the package.
- Only highly trained lecturing staff with relevant qualifications and experience are considered for working with SABH.
Costs
Costs vary depending on the course duration and level. All SABH courses are fully supported by ILA Scotland. There are olther funding opportunities available and if anyone is keen to embark on a course, either Marsie or Linda can advise.
Accessibility
All venues are risk-assessed to ensure safety and accessibility for wheelchair users.
Opening Days
- Monday
- Tuesday
- Wednesday
- Thursday
- Friday
Opening Times
- Mondays to Fridays inclusive. | Variable in order to suit learners and venue.
