Hi everyone!

I'm taking on the National Deaf Children's Society '100k in May' challenge.

As some of you already know, I have been learning BSL since September 2023 and – all being well – will complete my Level 2 qualification shortly. It's a cause close to my heart for a few reasons, but also because I've had to use sign language to communicate with kids through my work and have experienced the difference this makes.

Northern Ireland's Sign Language Bill is currently going through Stormont which, when law, will ensure more provision for the deaf community but there is a long way to go.

In the UK, 3 babies are born deaf every day.

There are more than 50,000 deaf children in the UK.

In Northern Ireland, there and are over 1,600 deaf children.

Together, we can help support deaf children and their families:

* £20 could help a family that has just found out their baby is deaf get free, confidential support from the NDCS helpline

* £50 could go towards NDCS online workshops to help families learn more about deafness and meet other parents

* £100 could contribute towards a sign language course to help parents and families.

Any donation will be greatly appreciated and make such a difference.

Thank you! 💙