Part-time, responsible for services, fundraising and communications
I was born severely-profoundly deaf, due to a cochlear malformation and enlarged inner ear meaning my hearing loss is progressive and affects my balance. Following the complete loss of residual hearing in my right ear, I had a cochlear implant fitted in 2017. I attended mainstream schools and university and started learning BSL in my 20s when I wanted to meet other deaf people.
Having experienced the many barriers deaf people face daily, I am passionate about the provision of accessible, safe spaces where deaf people can get information and meet others like them to find deaf identity and community. I wish I had the chance to learn British Sign Language (BSL) as a child and be part of a community of deaf peers. I'm passionate about ensuring that families have access to BSL learning opportunities and that there are supportive groups available for deaf children and young people.
I am a qualified teacher in Further Education. I have previously worked for several deaf charities including NDCS, RNID and Deafblind UK delivering employment and befriending services, and worked at The LGBT Foundation managing their volunteer programme. Before joining the team at Manchester Deaf Centre I was the CEO of Deaf Experience, a West Yorkshire based charity working with deaf young people aged 11–30. I was previously a trustee at MDC for three years and am so proud to now be part of the staff team here.
