Deaf 'role model' scheme extended

A scheme which recruits deaf people to become role models to deaf children and their families in Oxfordshire and Berkshire has been extended.

The role models - trained by The National Deaf Children's Society - originally visited just homes to share their life experiences.

But now they will be able visit local groups, schools, youth clubs and the charity's special family weekends.

Lottery cash funds the scheme, set up in 2006 and now extended to 2009.

Other areas across the country where the role models work include Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Cheshire, Wiltshire, Lancashire, Northern Ireland and Wales.

If I can be a part of something that will help parents think positively about their own child's future, that can only be a good thing Deaf role model, Emma McDonald

Emma McDonald, from Bicester, who is a deaf role model, attended mainstream schools and achieved a degree in Sports Psychology at Glamorgan University.

"If I can be a part of something that will help parents think positively about their own child's future, that can only be a good thing for everyone involved," said Ms McDonald, now working for a marketing agency.

Sally Reynolds, from The National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS), said: "We know from our work with families what a positive effect it can have if children and parents have the chance to get to know and be inspired by deaf adults.

"This project will help deaf children feel less isolated, and help the whole family have higher expectations of what their deaf child can achieve with the right support and encouragement."