Deafness Resource Centre provide support for D/deaf people in St Helens, Halton & Knowsley

We aim to empower, support and enhance the quality of life for D/deaf people, for children, young people, families and adults across Merseyside

ICan Project Activity Programme

We have exciting and varied activities planned through the whole year.  Suitable for different age groups ranging from ages 5-17 years old.

Click to see the full programme and book on as many as you want.  All activities are FREE!

Learn British Sign Language

BSL Level 1 & 2 Courses:   Sorry current courses are NOW FULL.  Please register your interest for the next course and be added to our waiting list.

Free Taster Session & 6 Week Courses:  Available.  Book Now!

 

Events

 

Make sure to check our page frequently for updates on the newest events and activities happening at DRC

Support & Social Groups

We run various support groups including Tinnitus, Hard of Hearing, Deaf Club and social events

 

 

Interpreters & Communication

Under the Equality Act 2010 D/deaf people have the right to acess services equally to someone who is hearing.

We provide BSL Interpereters, Lipspeakers and DeafBlind interpreters.

Room Hire

 

Did you you we have various size rooms in which you can hire.

From large hall, ideal for events, clubs and more to our social lounge room and training rooms.  We have it covered.

 

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.

 

Home page information in BSL

contact us on whatsapp

Our Services

deafness resource centre advocacy service

Deaf Advocacy

We advocate for the rights and needs of the D/deaf community, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected.

Deafness resource centre activities

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.

deafness resource centre Ican Children services

Children & Family Services

We believe that every child deserves a world of opportunity.  Our dedicated Children & Family Team is committed to providing unparalleled support and resources for families with D/deaf children or CODA’s (Children of Deaf adults).

Deaf Awareness & BSL Courses

We offer Deaf Awareness Sessions to enhance communication skills and promote D/deaf awareness.  Training available to organisations, schools and groups. We also deliver accredited Level 1 & Level 2 British Sign Language (BSL) courses as well a 2hr Basic Introduction to BSL.

Equipment Services

We offer free equipment to support you in your independence, adaptable for people with or without hearing aids.  Ranging from flashing door bells, the latest Bluetooth technology assisted equipment, loop systems, TV aids and more.

Communication Services

We offer sign language interpretation services for various situations.  Our interpreters are fully qualified, experienced and ensure effectives communication between D/deaf and hearing individuals/professionals.

 

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.

“Deafness Resource Centre support me with giving me a voice and provide support at health appointments so I can understand what is being said.

I know that there is someone there to help me with the communication and this lets me concentrate on myself.”

“All I can say, I am so thankful and really appreciate what you and other members of staff do for the deaf people. Thank you and Bless you all”

 

“I do not worry anymore as I know the lip speaker will get my attention if anyone is talking to me, I can tell her when I do not understand without me having to feel foolish or embarrassed.  I am so grateful to Deafness Resource Centre.”

“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

“I don’t know where we would be without the Deafness Resource Centre. They have helped us as a family immensely".

 

 “For me, as a carer, the DRC are always there. I know I can ring or email any time for help and advice. The Deafness Resource Centre is a lifeline for many families and I am grateful that it is here.”

 

"I'm happy that I made that first step, and what a difference it has made to me. "

 

 “Hearing loss for me makes me feel lonely in a room full of people, as I was missing so much of conversation. From the moment I met the DRC staff in the Halton Sensory Service office, they were welcoming, understanding and provided not only practical help with additional equipment to make life easier, but also advised me on support groups for Hearing loss, and Tinnitus”.

 

Following returning from the young people's residential weekend

 

“Matthew had a fabulous time, and gained so much confidence using BSL – many thanks for this opportunity. It was brilliant thank you for this opportunity”

A Decade of Transformation at the Deafness Resource Centre for one young man

 

“My son has been a regular attender at the Deafness Resource Centre (DRC) for 10 years. Initially he started in Happy Hands, then progressed to the youth club, and now is a volunteer helper.”

 

"I stopped going out until DRC helped me with special hearing equipment. Now I'm living my life again!"

 

“I’ve now fully re-engaged with my friends and feel confident going to the pub with my friends. My confidence has grown, and my mental health has greatly improved.”

 

Room Hire: This year we have used the 1st Floor Training Room to run wellbeing courses for adults

“We found the booking process very easy, a warm welcome every week and all at a very reasonable cost. We are very happy with our booking and usage of the premises. We appreciate the friendliness and professionalism of all the staff that we deal with.”

Communication Service:

“All I can say, I am so thankful and really appreciate what you and other members of staff do for the deaf people. Thank you and Bless you all”

 

 

 

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