Local Charity BID services with Deaf people is hoping to make 2008 a good
year for communication.

The charity, which is campaigning to increase the number of sign language learners in Birmingham and the West Midlands, are continuing to raise awareness about effectively communicating with Deaf people through the release of their top 5 communication tips for service providers and retailers.


Anthony Beeby, Campaigns Manager at BID believes that big changes can be made with these small recommendations.

“Our communications tips are just 5 little examples of how shop owners, retail staff and other service providers can make a real difference.  We often receive reports from the Deaf community that they experience communication barriers daily, which is very upsetting and disheartening."

“These tips will reduce some of the barriers faced.  They won’t solve all of the problems but they are a starting point and we are hoping that people who see the difference will take the next step of Deaf Awareness Training or learning British Sign Language.”

The Top 5 Tips are available on the BID website under the ‘communications tips’ heading  (www.bid.org.uk).  Anyone interested in learning British Sign Language or booking a Deaf Awareness Training course is advised to contact the BID communications team on 0121 246 6100, Textphone 0121 246 6101 or email info@bid.org.uk.