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MAGAZINE
Lifestyle & Culture with Equality
Gerry Hughes
Sailing in to the history books
Fashion and Health Tina Lannin Deaf Pioneer
Summer 2013
Priceless
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Summer’13
Contents & Editor’s Letter Hello, Page Deaf Lives . . . . .
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Coffee Corner . . . 12-29 Fashion. . . . . . . 30-37 Healthy Living . . . 38-49 Problem Pages . . . 50-51 Sport . . . . . . . . 52-59 Travel . . . . . . . . 60-65 Language & Communication . . 66-71 Regional Public Service Ads . . . . 72-79
Welcome to the Summer Edition of the SL First Deaf Friendly Magazine. Our second national edition is full of new stories, and we hope you enjoy the new enlarged content. The highlight in this edition is the successful return of Gerry Hughes to his family and friends after his epic journey around the world, following the tougher Chichester route, We also have our regular features from The Punk Chef, our agony aunt, language and communication and the lighter Coffee Corner. There are exciting times ahead, with SL First shortly enhancing its website to give our on-line readers a better digital experience. Many of our stories emanate from contacts we receive from individuals, clubs and organisations who ask us to cover a particular story. As SL First expands, we are also on the look out for guest authors, and if this is of interest to you, I must again thank all of our advertisers and supporters, without whom the magazine would not exist. A huge vote of thanks also goes to all of those people who have given me feedback on the magazine. With your continued support, we can go from strength to strength.
Sarah
SL First editor
Contact SL First
Contributors
Email:
Linda Day & Tessa Padden Signworld
Telephone: 02920 695185 Mobile: 07786 704223
Scott Garthwaite Punk Chef
Text (SMS): 077 8670 4223
Duncan Culley Signvideo
Please remember to include your name and organisation in the text.
Address: Tredomen Business
Sarah Lawrence Editor SL First
& Technology Centre Tredomen Business Park Ystrad Mynach, Caerphilly, CF82 7FN
Karl Jenkins Technology Kay & Gerry Hughes Quest III Cover photo AC2.com Magazine Designed by Little Birdie Studio
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Punk Chef interview by Sarah Lawrence
the deaf community. In traditional cookery programmes, Scott is concerned that some of the language used might involve too much jargon and put people off having a go. Along with Remark! Scott wants to do something about that and encourage deaf people to get involved. “I am passionate about my food and I want to share that with my community”, Scott explains. “Food is beautiful, and to create a dish from scratch is very rewarding and makes you proud of what you have created. I want deaf people to feel the same.” Through Remark!’s promotion, and the success of the on-line programme, Scott’s work and talents are being viewed in
media at Derby College for the at the Holy Land for the Deaf in Al
to leave by the British Embassy for his own safety. Having decided on cooking upon his return to the UK, and following his successful studies, Scott went to work in a Michelin starred Restaurant for 3 months, to get some work experience. “I loved it,” said Scott, “the details and perfection in cooking and presenting are awesome!” Whilst Scott’s path has taken him away from restaurants for the time being, it is something he wants to return to, to expand his knowledge and learn the secrets of the trade, and to offer some creative cooking ideas of his own. Through his on-screen character, The Punk Chef, Scott in getting a great deal of enjoyment from his work with Remark! He holds Remark! in very high regard and is excited about some of the plans they have to promote good cooking amongst 4
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the viewer information, Scott is very pleased with progress and believes the programmes have a very good future. Programmes involving The Punk Chef are tailored around deaf culture, and Scott is keen to appeal to his own community. “What the deaf community believe and are very passionate about, is seeing Deaf people present and do programmes on TV that they can relate to, and feel part of,” he says. “I want to share recipes along with some wicked, awesome cooking tips to my community as I feel the programme will Based on their understanding of deaf culture, The Punk Chef Programme provides many visual placements of ingredients and cooking techniques, which is easier for Deaf people to follow. They also have subtitled options as well as voice over, increasing accessibility to a wider audience. Doing so well, it would be a mistake to think that it has always been easy for Scott. Like many Deaf people trying to work in a hearing environment, Scott faced an the Michelin starred kitchen. “Not because of my cooking ability, but because of my deafness, as I feel staff there didn’t trust me or thought I didn’t know what I was doing, which was really insulting”, Scott described.
Scott found the Head Chef supportive and helpful, but in a highly competitive environment where everyone wants to be seen in their best light, Scott was given some of the more mundane tasks to complete. “You have to be patient in a kitchen, listen and learn,” Scott advises. “As you work your way up in ranking then you can look down and laugh at them.”
In thinking about young deaf people today and in light of his own experience Scott says, “Whatever you dream or vision, don’t think it’s ‘impossible’ because you are deaf, it is time we stood up, pulled our sleeves up and remember it’s going to be a struggle. But, once you achieve, you look back and think, ‘YES I did it my way’!... you can do it... The ‘Punk’ believes in you!”
Recipe
Sexy Steak
Shopping List
Method
: 3 Tbsp olive oil, 2 x 200gm rib eye steaks, 2 Plum tomatoes, halved, 2 sprigs of Thyme, Sea salt & ground pepper.
Preheat the oven to 150C. Place the tomatoes on an oven tray, drizzle with one tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle with thyme leaves, salt and pepper. Place in the oven and cook for 1hr 30 mins or until the tomatoes have cooked and have dried out a little.
: 2 Tbsp white wine vinegar, Half shallot, peeled and 3 black peppercorns, 2 stalks tarragon, 1 bay leaf, 2 egg yolks, 125gm melted butter, Half lemon wedge,
1 tspn tarragon leaves,
Served with… 80gm green beans, trimmed and blanched, 8 new potatoes, boiled in their skins
Serves 2
Meanwhile make the vinegar reduction for the Béarnaise sauce by placing the white wine vinegar, shallots, peppercorns, tarragon and bay leaf into a small saucepan along with a tablespoon of water. Bring up to the boil and allow to reduce until just a tablespoon of liquid is left. Strain and set aside. Next set up a small bowl over a small saucepan of simmering water. Add 1 tablespoon of water along with the egg yolks to the bowl and small amounts and continue to whisk until you have a thick sauce. Whisk in the vinegar reduction and season to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon if you’d like some extra tang. Stir in the herbs and keep in a warm place until needed. If the sauce thickens too much, just add a small amount of warm water to loosen it. Now it’s time to cook the perfect steak. Make sure you leave the meat out for a few minutes or until it’s at room temperature before you start cooking! Heat a griddle pan on a high heat. Place the meat on a plate and drizzle over one tablespoon of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. When the griddle is hot, place the steak on it and cook for 2-3mins per side for a medium-to-medium rare steak. Remove from the griddle and place on a plate and cover with foil and leave to rest for 5 minutes or so. While the meat is resting, heat a fry pan and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Slice the cooked potatoes and throw them into the pan and sauté on a medium heat until golden. Season with salt and pepper. Now it’s time to plate! Add the beans to the middle of the plate and place the steak on top. Add the tomatoes, sautéed potatoes and the watercress alongside. Spoon the béarnaise generously on top. Serve immediately. It’s sure to impress! Twitter
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Tony Padden Life as a deaf Tailor interview by Sarah Lawrence From the age of 7, Tony attended St Joseph’s School for Deaf boys at Cabra in Dublin. Founded in 1857 to accommodate 100 Deaf pupils, it is estimated that 20,000 students have been educated at St Joseph’s. Students came from all parts of Ireland, due to its unique nature as a Catholic deaf school. The school was run and lessons were
90 year old Anthony (Tony) Padden was born hearing. His
on his time at school, Tony says he liked most of the Brothers, but he recalls one who was particularly cruel, always falsely accusing boys of wrongdoing, so that they the afternoon, all the boys were made to sew clothes, socks and pants for the Christian Brothers, and were not allowed to look up or sign to each other.
were also deaf. Tony was born on a farm at Carrowkeribla, Attymass, County Mayo, the tenth of eleven children. Two of those children had been lost before Tony was born, but with of a very big family growing up.
Tony with his mother Margaret 6
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He also recalls one particular incident when a Christian Brother crept up to an elderly deaf-blind man and pulled his beautiful handlebar moustache so hard that it came off in his hand. The man was shocked, in pain and bleeding, and signed asking who did this. Tony remembers that all the boys were too frightened to look up as the Brother held up the moustache in triumph, laughing out loud. the age of 11. Students were given the choice of learning one of three trades – carpentry, tailoring or cobbling. Initially, Tony wanted to learn carpentry, because that is what his hearing brothers did, but the school told him to follow in the footsteps of his two deaf brothers, who were tailors.
to the hours that he worked.
Tony & Tessa at a lake in Carrowkeribla
Tony left St Joseph’s at the tender age of 14 - because the priests told him he was clever enough! But he realised he still had a lot to learn, especially in his understanding of English. Initially, he went to work on his parents’ farm, which he loved. But after two years they told him they thought farming was not for him and he should get a job as a tailor, just like his two older deaf brothers. He got a job as a tailor in the nearby town of Ballina, before later working alongside his brother John. In 1952, while on holiday in London, Tony met Sheila Myers, a Deaf girl from Tipperary. Sheila had been at school in Cabra at exactly the same time as Tony, but as the boys’ and girls’ schools were segregated, they had never met each other! Tony moved to London and they married a year later. In those early days in London,
Being a tailor at Harrods, Tony met many famous men and had the opportunity to make their suits. Of all those he ‘measuredup’, he regards the Sultan of Brunei as the most famous person he made a suit for, although in the Sultan’s case, it was several suits, not just the one! Arriving at Harrods quite late in his career, Tony stayed until 1987, when he made the decision to retire at the age of 65. Understandably, Tony is very proud to have been a tailor at Harrods and he regards that as the best time in his working life. Interestingly, in looking back at his career, Tony still wishes that he had ignored the advice of his teachers and continued with the that in spite of his great skill, he “hated” much of his time as a tailor, but persevered as it was his only way to make a living.
moving from job to job was far easier in those days. Tony recalls just how hard the work was back then, “slogging away on the factory before a better opportunity presented itself. Robert Daunt, a Birmingham-based deaf man who also came from Ireland told Tony about a tailor’s job that was available in Harrods. Tony took the bull by the horns and went to Harrods in person to ask about the opening. He got the job, and started working as a Harrods tailor in 1975. The hours were still long but Tony recalls being very happy
Tony & Shiela with Nicholas & Iona
Happily retired, Tony now spends his time reading, doing puzzles and playing bingo at deaf clubs. He also enjoys going out for walks and spending quality time with his family, including his Deaf daughter Tessa, who has proudly carried on the Deaf family tradition and passed it on in turn to Tony’s Deaf grandson, Nicholas! Tony also has a hearing granddaughter, Iona, who is just as proud of her Deaf grandad. Twitter
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The Pioneering Tina Lannin from 121 Captions interview by What Are The Buttons understand why hearing people struggle to comprehend deafness, and every day I am stunned at what I can hear.
Tina Lannin
Deaf people for Deaf people. The and at SL First we wanted to share I was born profoundly Deaf and profoundly stubborn! I’ve always thought nothing was impossible, even though I’ve had so many hearing people tell me, “You can’t do that”, just because I couldn’t hear. I always wore two hearing aids, which really only gave me some loud environmental sounds. I was brought up as a hearing person and relied on my ability to lipread. I accepted my deafness when I was around 20. As my hearing hit rock bottom, I struggled with daily headaches from the stress of communication. Three years a year later I received my second. Now I’m bionic, I know what it’s like on both sides of the coin, to be totally Deaf and to be hearing – it’s like night and day. Now I 8
SL First
other people allow me to be. If a person or group are not willing to meet me halfway with communication, I am cut off. Some people talk a mile a minute, others mumble, speak too softly or move around when they speak without consideration for the interpreter or my lip-reading skills. I have often been treated like a hearing person and my communication needs have not been met – perhaps because I don’t usually sign and I don’t ‘look Deaf’! Growing up I went to a hearing school and was bullied for years by fellow students. I realised that people just didn’t know how to talk to me. They didn’t understand deafness and were afraid to take the was at university, I did not have any communication support, so I was unable to hear any of my lectures. I worked harder to keep up – I would study every day from 4pm to midnight, pester my lecturers with questions, and read all the books on the reading list. Basically, I had to teach myself, keep myself motivated, and devise different ways to achieve my targets (such as asking for a written handout for my Japanese oral exam!). Although this technique fell down when I studied post-graduate law, as there were just not enough hours in the day for all the reading required! Television programmes were not subtitled when I was growing up, so I became an avid reader, which greatly helped my
language development. Other social activities were similarly cut off to me – cinemas and DVDs did not have subtitles, social events had no speech-to-text facilities, public transport announcements were made over a tannoy system and were, therefore, inaccessible. If I can’t see a transcription, I can’t ‘hear’ it.
As access to education and opportunities are compromised, Deaf people usually struggle to obtain job interviews, promotion, and high-level work. In my frustration at these barriers, I carried out an experiment after graduation. I sent out six job applications and stated on them that I am Deaf. I sent off another six applications and didn’t mention my hearing loss, and included a phone applications, however, the second six applications had employers falling over themselves to interview me and ringing me – until my mother responded by phone and told them I was Deaf; they all dropped me like a hot potato then. In work, I have also been passed over for promotion as employers did not allow me to use Text Relay with their customers. Employers tend to be unable to see past my disability to my ability.
I’ve been lip-reading since I could open my eyes; I rely on lip-reading because I have always been treated as a hearing person, and I live in a hearing world. I learned sign language when I was around 30, as an additional communication tool when I meet another sign language user. My skills in sign language and lip-reading are very useful when I’m in a noisy place and hearing people are shouting at each other, “Pardon? I can’t hear you!”, but I am able to carry on communicating. I started in business by offering Deaf awareness training and lip-reading courses, and mentoring Deaf people into work. I have always been passionate about helping other Deaf people, as I to communicate and to cope in a hearing world that doesn’t really understand deafness. I added strings to my bow with forensic lip-reading by popping into the news clips and lip-reading surveillance tapes for the police.
I worked as an accountant for many years and found I was treated equally by disability organisations, in contrast to support from Access to Work due to ignorance and budget constraints. There is little guidance for Deaf people starting out in their careers, and consequently I have helped Deaf people get into work through mentoring and careers consultancy, then easing the adjustment process by offering Deaf awareness training to their colleagues. I have found that the best way to address these career obstacles is to be self-employed – as I won’t discriminate against myself or my clients!
Who better to provide such services than a deaf consumer who has years of expertise in using them? We feel it’s important that Deaf services can be deaf-led. After all, deaf users are the experts and we understand what works, what doesn’t, who the best service providers are, and we are good at thinking outside the box. It’s so refreshing to work with deaf people who ‘get it’ and can be relied upon to provide high quality communication services in conjunction with important support services – deaf awareness training, mentoring into work, Twitter
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careers consultancy. We have created a social enterprise by creating work for deaf awareness trainers and lip-readers, building up a network of professionals who are just fabulous at what they do. Communication support isn’t just a service. It affects our education, our careers, and ultimately our lives.
Remote Captions Always striving for improvements, I Speech-to-text in the UK. I saw remote speech-to-text being used in Australian schools and in the USA. I thought this way of making speech-to-text accessible over the internet would increase the availability of speech-to-text services in the UK, where there are only around 25 NRCPD registered (The National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deaf-blind People) speechto-text reporters who often have to travel long distances to a client’s venue. In Scotland there are no speech-to-text reporters (STTRs) at all, so a STTR could travel from London to Edinburgh for a short meeting, with travel, expenses and accommodation costs added on top.
Remote speech-to-text helps to address the issues of availability and expense by opening up access to STTRs in other 10
SL First
countries, working in other languages, working across time zones, in a very costeffective way – the client only requires an internet connection and a microphone for sound, and we do the rest. I have used this service when I’ve joined a zoo tour and I couldn’t hear the guide – I whipped out my iPhone and his talk was relayed to me on my phone, via captions. Claire and Mike have cochlear implants, they had remote speech-to-text provided at their UK wedding service, with their relatives in New Zealand following in real-time, and the happy couple have the transcript as an unusual memento to keep for years to come. Remote speech-to-text, really is ground-breaking and it opens up more opportunities for communication, which is good news for both businesses and consumers.
Most recently, I was asked to lip-read the Royal Wedding ceremony for British Sky Broadcasting. I went to their television studios in West London and I was parked in front of a large television screen to give the team updates throughout the day. It
was lovely to be involved in the day in this way, although it was quite nerve-wracking to be lip-reading in one-dimension and on
hard of hearing people. We plan to add
Rather than pursue high stake engagements, my priority is to deliver a quality service at a reasonable cost. If a service is very expensive, this makes it less accessible to society. Everyone, both Deaf and hearing, should have access to captions in every part of the community. There are up to 4.2 million CCTV cameras in the UK, about one for every 14 people. As the UK becomes a CCTV society, lip-reading services are increasingly in demand. I believe that people are entitled to equally affordable access to our specialist lip-reading services.
Website: www.121captions.com Email: info@121captions.com
Stelios Award 2012 finalist
podcasts, webinars, video & TV, silent CCTV, teleconference calls
Speech-to-text Remote cap ons Text on Top Notetakers TV & video sub tles Sub tle your own video - new! Lipspeakers Forensic lipreaders English to BSL/Braille/Large print
Accredited writers 15+ languages Deaf-owned and deaf-led We know our business
+44 (0) 20 8242 4570
Š EW James
SL First Crossword the answers on page 73
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SL First
Across
Down
, 4. 42.195 metres 6. Punishment or disadvantage 7. Name used for lifting 8. O colour bucket 10. State police 11. Award of praise 13. Trudge 14. One sixteenth of a pound 15. Beautiful sleek racing feline
1. Inconsistent 2. No! It's not valid 3. Friendly sandwich 5. Steep downward plunge 8. Egyptian Ruler 9. Someone's strong point 10. Organ that removes waste 12. Shrill whistle of disappointment 13. Unimportant
Brain Training the answers on page 73
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3.
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b
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d
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SL First Funniest Photo Competition by Sarah Lawrence
With a prize of £50 cash, we invited submissions of funny pictures containing the SL First Magazine. A collection of the submissions are shown here. We were delighted to receive photos of pets reading the magazine, babies, toddlers and reading in some strange positions, many of which made us laugh! This Edition’s competition is to have a photograph of the Summer Edition of the SL First Magazine (or copy of the front page for on-line readers) taken as far away from Cardiff as possible. The photo will need to be taken at a well known or submission. Photos should be shared via the SL First facebook page, so that everyone can enjoy the efforts being made to win the prize. The closing date for submissions is the 21st August 2013, so make sure to pack a copy of the magazine when you pack for your Summer holidays.
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SL First
First far away’ photos via the
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SL First Money Saving Tips The important thing to remember
1. Don’t be frightened to haggle – when
we go abroad, many of us are prepared to haggle about the price of things in markets and even in some shops. We do so because we are told it is part of the culture. There are times and places here in the UK where haggling has been taking place for years – buying and selling houses and cars – are two obvious examples. What people don’t realise is that there are other purchases we make where asking for the ‘best’ price, or ‘lowest’ price is also very acceptable. If you are shopping for a
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new bed or sofa, these are often items with a heavy mark up and plenty of scope for movement on the asking price. Take a pen and pad with you, in case you need it, but be prepared to ask. If a sales person takes offence at you asking, then they probably don’t deserve your custom anyway. And don’t be too cautious either, if they can offer big discounts in sales periods, that gives you a clue about the extent of their mark up, because they wouldn’t be selling it at a loss even during a sale. Bigger ticker items such as electrical white goods, TV’s are also worth asking about. If they can’t give you a discount what else could they do to stop you taking your business next door. It pays to ask!
2. Car insurance is a really good example
of a regular family expenditure that is often renewed year after year without challenge. Some people actually stay with the same insurer for a long period, and yet the truth of the matter is, very few insurance companies reward loyalty – if anything
the opposite occurs. New customers get the deals and loyal customers pay the top prices. Our advice – either shop around every year to see if there are better deals available, or tell your insurance company that you can get a better deal elsewhere and give them the opportunity to match, or better it. You will surprised by how much you can get reduced and a ten-pound note is better in your purse or wallet than in the insurance company’s.
3. When shopping on-line, as many of us
do, have you noticed how often you come across a section on the payment page that invites you to give a promotion code. For years, I used to think – what’s that about? I don’t have a promotion code. I was missing out on making a saving on my purchase promotion code and include it. Quite often
those savings will be 5% or 10%, free P&P, £5 or £10 off, or even higher. Before you complete the purchase you were going to make anyway, just spend a couple of minutes searching the web to to websites that do nothing else but send you voucher or promotion codes to reduce your shopping bills. There are several of them, registration should be free, and just remember to only buy because you wanted to anyway, not just because there is a voucher giving you a little off.
Week by week some of these savings can But if someone came to you at the end of year and gave you £200 or £300 cash, and even more, you would be delighted. Shopping smart, can make sure you get that year after year.
Money Saving Tips also the amount of energy needed. of four can cut water usage by as much as 280 gallons a month — and yet not feel much difference in water. Buy fruit and veg that is seasonal. Try to avoid food that has travelled long distances, as this adds to pollution. by putting a plastic bottle in the cistern. This will reduce the amount of water used, whilst still being effective.
Use natural soaps and shampoos, as these are better for you. Conventional products contain harmful chemicals and your skin absorbs 60% of what you put on it. Cards that are costly to produce and scrap, send a recycled card, or even better, an e-card.
Do not leave appliances on standby, as you are still using electricity if standby. Put lids on saucepans when cooking as this reduces the boiling time and Twitter
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Subtitles on YouTube by Karl Jenkins BSc (Hons)
things on YouTube and how you can
videos that have subtitles. Head to www. youtube.com on your computer and do a search for anything you’d like to know more about.
Now that you’ve got a list of videos up you can tell YouTube to only show you the videos that have subtitles available. To do this, click on the Filters button, searched for. YouTube is a great resource for learning, for information and for fun. If you’re looking for funny videos of cats and dogs learning how to knit, balloon modelling or just poaching eggs? All of these topics and many more, are covered many times on YouTube. So what about those occasions when you’ve found the video you need but it’s presented by a non-signer or someone talking in another language? Maybe you want to know what someone is singing about. Then you have to hope that the clip has subtitles available. Here, we’re
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SL First
Then click on the option that says ‘CC (closed caption)’.
After clicking on the CC option, the video list will change to display only results that have subtitles available. You can now simply click on any of the videos in that list and start laughing or learning.
subtitles available, you start the video and still no subtitles! Don’t panic – it just means they’re not currently switched on and you can enable them in a couple of clicks. Just underneath the video, you’ll see that there’s a bar with several buttons. The one that deals with subtitles will look like one of these two buttons:
with the non-automatic option if one is available.
If you would like to always have subtitles switched on when watching videos on YouTube (when available) then you can change your settings to make this happen. Go to the YouTube account page (www.youtube.com/account) and sign in if it asks you to. In the menu on the left, choose Playback.
Press that button and then choose English (or any other language you’d like to see subtitles in)
Then tick the box for ‘Always show captions’ and if you’d also like to use the automatic captions when real captions are not available, tick the second box too.
One option you might have noticed in that list is ‘English (automatic captions)’; these are subtitles that have been added to the video automatically by YouTube using specialist voice recognition software. It ‘listens’ to the people talking in the video and then automatically creates subtitles for what it hears. However – a strong word of caution – don’t ever rely on automatic captions for any important information – it is very often wrong (sometimes hilariously) so always go
Enjoy!!
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Photography Tips: The Rule of Thirds The most important part of the
The Grid
type or a top of the range
There are many tips for improving your photographs, but my favourite is called the “rule of thirds”. This rule can be used with any camera to improve the composition (the look) of the photo. It is common when taking photos to position the subject in the middle of the photo. While this can produce nice photos you can add an extra interest by using the rule of thirds. The rule of thirds requires the photographer to view the scene as if it was divided up into 9 equal squares arranged in a grid – 3 across the top, 3 across the middle and 3 across the bottom like the picture below. With some digital cameras, there is an option to have the grid on screen to help you compose the photo.
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SL First
The way to use the grid is to place the main subject where the lines intersect or cross. For example, see this series of pictures:
see how it aligns with the grid.
The best thing, is to try it for yourself. With smart phones you can change the focus point by tapping on the screen – see illustration below.
With most cameras, if you press the shutter button half way, it will automatically focus on the centre of the frame and hold the focus there until you press the button all the way or release the button. This will allow you to apply the rule of thirds. Centre the object you want to focus on, press the shutter halfway, move the camera so the object matches the rule, then press the button all the way. If your camera or smart phone doesn’t allow you to display the rule of thirds grid, and crop the picture until it matches the rule. More pictures showing how to use the rule of thirds can be found here http://goo.gl/EcSX0 Twitter
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SL First World Deaf Photos
If you would like to take a picture of your hometown/location and to publish here in Autumn – please send us your photo.
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Somewhere in the Atlantic by AC2.com
Penarth South Wales by Dafydd Eveleigh
Gold Coast Brisbane by Jennifer Maric
Askola, Finland Dec 2011 by Lee Robertson
SL First
Gerry Hughes - Somewhere in the Atlantic
Brisbane by Jennifer Maric
Brisbane by Jennifer Maric
Brisbane by Jennifer Maric
The Villages, Florida by Susan J. Zupnik
New Zealand by Zane Hema
Family celebrating at Troon Marina by AC2.com
Lago San Roque (San Roque Lake) in Villa Carlos Paz, C贸rdoba, Argentina. by Juancito Druetta
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Deafbiz Blog - The Hidden Disability by Sarah Lawrence
the world. The blog has now
stories, with some of them resulting in us promoting them as Deaf Friendly services in the SL First Magazine. Most recently, people have contacted us and asked if we would consider hosting blogs from guest bloggers. We intend to do just that, under our editorial control, but we think it is important to share the views and opinions of others. Indeed, blogs by others might help us convince some service providers that the issues we highlight are widespread, and not just the experience of Simon or Sarah. A highlight this month is that one of our positive story blogs, was used as the basis of a Council Press Release. We have also received some great feedback over the last three months, and forged some new relationships directly through the blog. With new bloggers coming on board, we hope our DaefBiz blog continues to go from strength to strength. Thank you to all those people who read it and help us get the stories out there.
Most importantly, we have continued to highlight issues of concern, and in some of those cases, we have been contacted shortly afterwards to ask for our help in improving the service provision we have called into question. Of course, not every blog hits the mark, but we will continue to raise issues that are brought to our attention. Over the last three months, we have also been party to some excellent examples of Deaf Friendly services, and it has been a pleasure to give those positives the same level of blog coverage. In the same way that calls for improvement sometimes got a response, so did some of the positive 28
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www.dfbsdeafbiz.com
n
lauraashley.com
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Deaf Friendly is a consultancy and training provider based in the UK which focuses on Deaf Awareness and British Sign Language. Deaf Friendly is able to provide excellent services in:
Sarah Lawrence 07786704223
FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE
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sarah@deaf-friendly.co.uk w www.deaf-friendly.co.uk
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Summer Fashion Recycle your winter wardrobe by Charlotte Lawrence
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Charlotte Lawrence is a teenage fashion writer, a student and works at a ladies fashion boutique.
Summer Fashion All about Aztec
River Island £26.00
by Charlotte Lawrence
River Island £14.00
H & M £29.99 New Look £16.99
New Look £19.99
Tesco F & F £5
Topshop £28.00 Twitter
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Summer Fashion Men Summer Essentials
Chris Coles is an experienced fashion stylist who has worked at Harvey Nicholas & John Lewis
by Chris Coles
Bring out the shirts and t-shirts, nice colours and combine with simple plain shorts as seen here. Shirt - H&M £9.99 H&M £14.99 M&S £7.99
Shorts - H&M £14.99 M&S £49.50 32
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Zara £22.99
Summer Fashion Men Summer Essentials Blazers or jumpers go very well with chinos, to give that crisp look.
M&S £15.00 (other colours available)
H&M £34.99 £29.99 (other colours available) And let’s see what
Tesco F&F £12.00
H&M £7.99
Next £13.00
Next £25.00
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Summer Styling The trends for the ladies
Chris Coles is an experienced fashion stylist who has worked at Harvey Nicholas & John Lewis
by Chris Coles
wardrobe with the latest trends... If you are thinking of going on holiday, below is the perfect bikini look. In the affordable category, this swimsuit is from Primark. from the crowd, what would be perfect with is it a lovely hat and good pair of shades as seen below.
ASOS £20.00
H&M £20.00 ASOS £12.00 Primark from £3.00 34
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Summer Styling The trends for the ladies Now lets see what summer clothes are looking to be popular...
M&S £15.60
Oasis £38.00 Long Summer Dress, perfect for long Summer evenings.
H&M £29.99 ASOS £38.00 Some ideal accessories to go
H&M £7.99
Next £9.00
H&M £14.99 F&F Tesco - £20.00
Next £9.00 Twitter
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Jean West A positive young role model interview by Sarah Lawrence Growing up, Jean had what she considers to be a fantastic childhood. She could lip-read and her friends were supportive, taking time to make sure she understood what people were talking about. When considering her future Jean was unsure what she wanted to do. She saw a course on hairdressing, and whilst unconvinced that this is what she wanted to do longer term, she enrolled. Within weeks, Jean knew she had made a great choice, “I realised it was the perfect career for me,” explained Jean, “hairdressing is visual, it combines colour, working in 3D and working with people. I love being able to make my clients happy, and seeing them leave with the haircut or colour they wanted, gives me a lot of satisfaction.” Jean has been studying at the City College Brighton, and she is about to complete the City and Guilds Level 3 in hairdressing, which looks at salon management and advanced skills. The fact that Jean is still studying though, has not stopped her getting out there and making a name for herself. Jean was born in Manchester, but moved abroad during her formative years. Born Deaf, she attended a hearing school her parents thought she would be best served by attending a school in England. Jean attended St John’s Catholic School for the Deaf in Boston Spa.
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If you have a dream job, you can do it. It’s up to you to do it. You need to don’t be scared to try! Jean West
Jean has already set up her own hairdressing business, and she has generated great interest and secured some interesting work. She is a young lady who understands the power of social media and today’s technology, using her own Apple and Android App to allow customers to make home visit bookings. She is making a name for herself through her ambition as well as her skills and has already secured glamour commissions in London.
We asked Jean about her most interesting commission. “I was asked to do some hair styling back stage, during the London Fashion Week”, she explained. “It was a new experience for me, and it was in a professional but hectic environment, working with real models. I had to work with the ideas of the fashion designer, but could also put some of my own ideas into the styling too. It was just fantastic and a brilliant experience.”
For Jean, this is still very much the start of her journey, “I want to continue with my business and mentor other Deaf hairdressers”, she said. “I would also like to have my own salon in the future, where I could teach and mentor other Deaf hairdressers.”
Whilst Jean was aware of little discrimination during her childhood, she did get a lot of negative feedback when you talked to people about her plans to go freelance with her hairdressing. She listened to people’s opinions, but she did not let that put her off. “If you have a dream job, you can do it,” she offers to young Deaf people today. “It’s up to you to do it. You need to be determined and
I realised it was the perfect career for me, hairdressing is visual, it combines colour, working in 3D and working with people. I love being able to make my clients happy and seeing them leave with the haircut or colour they wanted, gives me a lot of satisfaction Jean West
As well as having her own ambitions, Jean is a natural carer, and she supports other people in their endeavours. She is the co-founder of the ‘Hair Sprit’, a community group which aims to break down barriers between Deaf and hearing professionals, helping Deaf hairdressers into the profession. ‘Hair Spirit’ hosts a lot of events and promotes Hair Spirit you can go to the Hair Spirit Facebook page or follow Jean on Twitter @HairSpiritevent
and her hairdressing business at:
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What’s On
26th – 29th July Longridge Showground, Preston, Lancashire! https://www.facebook.com/ groups/signcircle/?fref=ts
BSL Learners 22nd – 23rd June Galloway Wildlife Conservation, DG6 4XX www.facebook.com/ pages/GallowayWildlife-ConservationPark/120013954753662
Programme 4th – 19th July Dublin, Ireland - sporting activities camp for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Coda youths and their siblings ages 11 and upwards
21st – 23rd June Tonna RFC, The Memorial Ground, Mount Pleasant, Tonna, Neath, SA11 3HX info@deafbikers.org.uk or Facebook “Deaf Bikers UK”
5th – 9th August The Vale Resort, Cardiff. Non golfers are welcome. www.walesdeafgolf.com
Deafzone & BSL Interpreters 26th – 30th June Glastonbury www.facebook.com/ groups/107037079346897/ members
17th August 4.30pm www.rceltickets.com/eventlist. asp?VenueID=15 adultlearning@royalcollection.org.uk or 020 7766 7323 38
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27th June In Fine Style – The Art of Tudor and Stuart Fashion, SW1A 1AA www.rceltickets.com/eventlist. asp?VenueID=15 adultlearning@royalcollection.org.uk or 020 7766 7323
Sign Circle 2013 The biggest Deaf BSL camping festival in the UK
that is going on at the campsite. We have a wide range of activities, workshops, performances and entertainment for you to enjoy. During this weekend you can take part in the programme or simply sit back, relax and switch off. And ooh, can you imagine - it’s the sixth Sign Circle so far and they are only getting bigger and bigger. This year they are expecting up to 800 campers! When you buy a ticket to Sign Circle, you will get free unlimited access to all activities, workshops and evening entertainment. You will only need to bring your food or if it’s too much hassle, you can buy your meals from the Food Village! Ticket prices: Adults (18_s and over) £75 each; Kids and Youths (under 18_s) £36 each; Babies and Toddlers (under 5_s) £5 each; and Families (two adults and two kids) £190. Visit
The reason why Sign Circle was set up is because mainstream festivals are often not accessible for Deaf people, and they do not have the unique elements of Deaf community and culture. At Sign Circle you have unlimited access in BSL to anything
WEB AND GRAPHIC DESIGN Web www.littlebirdiestudio.co.uk Logo Design Business Cards Email chirp@littlebirdiestudio.co.uk Websites Brochures Leaflets Twitter
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Gerry Hughes Global Champion by Sarah Lawrence Docking a few days later in Troon, on the 8th May, Gerry was re-united with his family and friends after 8 months at sea, amongst hordes of adoring fans and well-wishers.
Photo by AC2.com
What an achievement! We feel proud, but his family and close friends must be awash with emotion, and the complete sense of achievement. Typically stoic, Gerry went with the landing party to a pub to celebrate his safe return, with Gerry the last to leave, despite the exhaustion of his journey! Eight months at sea, tackling some of the most dangerous seas on Earth, Gerry has accomplished something that many people will have regarded as impossible. His mental and physical strength has been tested well beyond what people would regard as possible, but Gerry has done it.
Photo by Heidi Koivisto
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Setting off in September last year, Gerry since he was just 14 years old. Gerry’s incredibly supportive wife Kay, kindly shared with us a picture of an edition of his father’s sailing magazine, on which he had written his intention to sail around the world following the same route as Sir Francis Chichester all those years ago. His sense of relief and pride must be immense. Gerry’s departure received a lot of local publicity, and despite arriving home on a news rich day, Gerry’s accomplishments have been applauded all around the world. Throughout the eight months of his journey, Gerry’s lovely wife Kay has shared information about his progress and garnered more and more support.
Kay has found the level of support and kind comments energising, and she has delighted in sharing some of those comments with Gerry during their frequent exchanges.
What an achievement! We feel proud, but his family and close friends must be awash with emotion, and the complete sense of achievement. Sarah Lawrence
Kay and the land based support team have also been continuing to raise funds for the challenge, and fundraising events have thrown together Deaf Clubs miles apart to help raise money. Only a few weeks ago, Cardiff Deaf Club held a social evening when they joined members of Glasgow Deaf Club via a projected FaceTime call, to raise funds in support of Gerry. Further events are planned to celebrate the achievement, so if you haven’t donated yet, but would like to do so, there is still time. It is impossible to capture a sense of the extreme hardship Gerry has faced. As with most global voyages, lots of things didn’t go to plan, and Gerry has had to
Gerry Hughes & Jim Colhorn - emotional reunion
The Facebook page, set up to allow followers to track his progress and make comment has been awash with updates from Kay, and comments from supporters all over the world. As well as spreading news about his progress,
complete his childhood dream. The latter stages have been far more challenging than expected, both in terms of strange weather patterns, but more importantly through electrical failures. Losing his chart plotter and autopilot Gerry was forced to stop sailing whilst he tried to longer periods.
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Diabetes - that will never happen to me! by Simon Deacy exercise he looks good for his age and is It wasn’t always like that. I don’t know lot of the advice he was given to manage and control it. The implication of that is family members have to learn the tell tale signs that he either had too much sugar in his body or had too much insulin. That issue was a daily balancing act.
get diabetes. I was wrong! My father was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when he was aged 17. As a young child growing up, I got to know a lot about diabetes, because my father’s diabetes was something we all had to cope with. he was unlikely to live past 55. He was insulin dependent, and the stress and strain put on the heart and the rest of the body, meant that he was given a limited life-span. I’m pleased to say that aged 73, he is still about, and through regular
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When the balance is wrong, the consequence can be quite severe, fatal if uncorrected. Looking back, I suppose some of my father’s drunk-like behaviour was probably quite funny, but at 10 years old and knowing you had to do something to correct it, it was no fun at all. Even today, 40 years on, I can still remember the stress and panic that induced because in this type of ‘drunk-like’ state, he always pushed the glass of lemonade away and steadfastly refused to drink it. I’d like to say this was a rare occurrence, but sadly it was not. Out in public, or at events or functions, we all used to watch him like a hawk, looking for that were not right and jumping in to correct it before he started to act strangely and attract attention. Consequently, I grew up far too fast, became far too sensible too early, and deeply resented diabetes. Seeing what it had done to me, I was adamant that I would not get it, and have my children have to deal with the same issues.
The problem is that I took my eye off the ball. An increasingly sedentary work life, that had me working on a computer for long periods in work and when I got home, meant that my waistline started to expand. I still exercised, but I knew it wasn’t enough. I should have done something about it, but I put work as my expense of everything else. Just before I turned 51, I began to feel little niggly things going wrong with my body. I began to have a thirst that could not be quenched. I constantly had this funny, but incredibly annoying tingling on the end of my tongue. To my wife’s annoyance, I started needing to get up in the night for a little tinkle. Not once, or one occasion, seven times (not that I was counting!). I started to lose weight, which was great, but I knew it wasn’t for the right reasons.
from the occasional treat. I now have to watch everything I eat and try to get the right amount of carbohydrates. I was never a big drinker, but alcohol intake has to be very measured. Whilst I am trying to bring my stupidly high blood-sugar level down I have to take tablets every day, and I will always have to take tablets to control my cholesterol. I hate the fact that I am diabetic, but whilst I let myself and my family down am adamant that I will at least control it perfectly through my diet and a new routine of exercise, so that it has no bearing on my family’s quality of life. I just wish I had looked after myself better through my 30’s and 40’s, as that would have prevented me from getting it, and all of the increased health risks that come with diabetes.
With my knowledge of diabetes, I knew what it was, so, determined never to have it, I just tried to ignore it and hoped it went away. As the weeks went on, I was getting more tired through the disrupted sleep and eventually plucked up enough courage to see my GP. One prick of my that was it – I had diabetes – and I had a reading that came as a shock to my doctor. regret. I know this is my fault, and I know I should have done more to prevent it. I have Type 2, rather than my father’s Type 1, which can be easier to manage and does not have the same daily balancing act requirement, but it has still completely changed my life. The chocolate I used to love, is now a no-no. Biscuits, cakes, ice-cream and desserts, are more or less no-no’s, apart
Before
After
1. Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to maintain a normal blood glucose level, or your body is unable to use the insulin that is produced (insulin resistance). The pancreas produces the hormone insulin, which moves glucose from your blood into your cells, where it is converted into energy. In type 2 diabetes, there are several reasons why the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Twitter
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increases your risk of heart disease, stroke and some types of cancer. You are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes if you: Are over 40 years old Have a relative with the condition Are overweight or obese
Age Your risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age. This may be because people tend to gain weight and exercise less as they get older. Maintaining a healthy weight through a good, balanced diet and exercising regularly, are ways of preventing and managing diabetes. Type 2 diabetes often develops in white people over the age of 40. In recent years, an increasing number of younger people are developing the condition. It is also becoming more common for children, in some cases as young as seven, to develop type 2 diabetes.
Genetics is one of the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Your risk is increased if you have a close relative, such as a parent, brother or sister, who has the condition. The closer the relative, the greater the risk. A child who has a parent with type 2 diabetes has about a one-inthree chance of also developing it.
Being overweight or obese If you are overweight or obese (you have a body mass index of 30 or greater), you are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In particular, fat around your abdomen (tummy) puts you at increased risk. This is because it releases chemicals that can upset the body’s cardiovascular and metabolic systems. This then 44
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A quick way of assessing your diabetes risk is to measure your waist. This is a measure of abdominal obesity, which is a particularly high-risk form of obesity. Women have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes if their waist measures 31.5 inches (80cm) or more. Men with a waist size of 37 inches (94cm) or over have a higher risk. Reducing your body weight by about 5% and exercising regularly, could reduce your risk of getting diabetes by more than 50%.
2. Preventing heart disease There are several ways you can reduce your risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD), such as, lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Eat a healthy, balanced diet - A low-fat, portions a day) and whole grains. You should limit the amount of salt you eat to no more than 6g (0.2oz) a day, because too much salt will increase your blood pressure. Six grams of salt is about one teaspoonful. There are two types of fat: saturated and unsaturated. You should avoid food containing saturated fats because these will increase your cholesterol levels. Foods high in saturated fat include meat pies, sausages, and fatty cuts of meat, butter, lard, cream, hard cheese, and cakes and biscuits. However, a balanced diet should include a small amount of unsaturated fat, which will help reduce your cholesterol levels. Foods high in unsaturated fat include:
Avocados
Nuts and seeds vegetable oil You should also try to avoid too much sugar in your diet, as this can increase your chances of developing diabetes. Be more physically active - Combining a healthy diet with regular exercise is the best way to maintain a healthy weight. Having a healthy weight reduces your chances of developing high blood pressure. Regular exercise will make your heart and blood circulatory system more level, and also keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. Keep to a healthy weight - Your GP or practice nurse can tell you what your ideal weight is in relation to your build and BMI (body mass index) is by using a BMI calculator. Give up smoking - If you smoke, giving up will reduce your risk of developing CHD. Smoking is a major risk factor for developing atherosclerosis (furring of the arteries). It also causes the majority of cases of coronary thrombosis in people under the age of 50. Reduce your alcohol consumption - If you drink, stick to recommended guidelines. The recommended daily amount of alcohol for men is three to four units a day and two to three units for women. Always avoid binge drinking. Keep your blood pressure under control - You can keep your blood pressure under control by eating a healthy diet low in saturated fat, exercising regularly, and if required, taking the appropriate medication to lower your blood pressure. Your target blood pressure should be
below 140/85mmHg. If you have high blood pressure, ask your GP to check your blood pressure regularly. Keep your diabetes under control - If you are diabetic, you have a greater risk of developing CHD. If you have diabetes, being physically active, controlling your weight and blood pressure will help manage your blood sugar level. If you are diabetic, your target blood pressure level is below 130/80mmHg. If you have CHD, you may be prescribed medication to help relieve your symptoms and stop further problems developing. If you do not have CHD, but do have high cholesterol, high blood pressure or a history of family heart disease, your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent you developing heart-related problems. If you are prescribed medication, it is vital you take it and follow the correct dosage. Do not stop taking your medication doing so is likely to make your symptoms worse and put your health at risk.
Fruit and vegetables are part of a balanced diet and can help us stay healthy. That’s why it so important that we get enough of them.
of fruit and veg together. Twitter
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They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including folate, vitamin C and potassium. They are an excellent source of healthy gut and prevent constipation and other digestion problems. A diet of bowel cancer. They can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers. Fruit and vegetables contribute to a healthy and balanced diet. Fruit and vegetables are also usually low in fat and calories (provided you don’t fry them or roast them in lots of oil). That is why eating them can help you maintain a healthy weight and keep your heart healthy.
a variety of fruit and vegetables. This is because different fruits and vegetables vitamins, minerals and other nutrients.
take our recommended dose for too long. We all know someone whose health is suffering as a consequence of leading too sedentary a lifestyle. Whatever your age, being physically active can help you lead a healthier and even happier life. Don’t we owe it to our loved ones to be around to help, support and enjoy them for as long as possible? People who do regular activity have a lower risk of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and some cancers. Research shows that physical activity can also boost selfesteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. evidence, it seems obvious that we should all be physically active. It is essential if you want to live a healthy, medically proven that people who do regular physical activity have: Up to a 35% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke Up to a 50% lower risk of type 2 diabetes
It is the miracle prevention for a wide range of illnesses and ailments that we have all been waiting for – Exercise! Or to use another word – Activity! Being active can reduce your risk of major illnesses, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer by up to 50%, and lower your risk of early death by up to 30%. It can be free, easy to hard, enjoyable, social, and has an immediate effect. Exercise is the miracle cure we’ve always had, but many of us have neglected to 46
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Up to a 20% lower risk of breast cancer A 30% lower risk of early death Up to a 68% lower risk of hip fracture A 30% lower risk of falls (among older adults) Up to a 30% lower risk of depression Up to a 30% lower risk of dementia What counts? - The bottom line is, any exercise or activity is better than none.
demanding than for previous generations. it is better to get up and walk around every now and again, or lift yourself repeatedly in your seat using your arms. small periods of time. No matter what your normal daily environment is, you can easily introduce activity into your routine. Use stairs instead of lifts. Go up and down stairs twice when you are using them, just for the fun of it! Use the bottom step to do 10 step ups, every time you are going to use the stairs. If you are waiting for a kettle to boil, do some simple pushups on the edge of the counter. The opportunities to introduce increased activity into your daily routine are endless, and all without stepping a single foot inside a gym. It is just a matter of thinking about it. Moderate intensity aerobic activity it better for you. This means you are working hard enough to raise your heart rate and break into a sweat. One way to tell if you are working at a moderate intensity, is whether you can breath normally, or have to breath more heavily. Examples of moderate intensity aerobic activities are: Walking fast Water aerobics Riding a bike on level ground or with few hills Playing doubles tennis A modern problem - People are less active nowadays, partly because technology has made our lives easier. We drive cars or take public transport. Machines wash our clothes. We entertain ourselves in front of a TV or computer screen. Fewer people are doing manual work, and most of us have jobs that involve little physical effort. Work, house chores, shopping and other necessary activities are far less
levels Children under 5 should do 180 minutes every day. Young people (5-18) should do 60 minutes every day. Adults should do 150 minutes every week
Because of the change in our lifestyles, we move around less and burn off less energy than people used to. Research suggests that many adults spend more than seven hours a day sitting down, at work, on transport or in their leisure time. People aged over 65 spend 10 hours or more each day sitting or lying down, making them the most sedentary age group. To maintain good general health, it is important that people take action through the introduction of simple activity routines, to change that. Sedentary lifestyles - Inactivity is described by the Department of Health as a “silent killer�. Evidence is emerging that sedentary behaviour, such as sitting or lying down for long periods, is bad for your health. Spending hours sitting down watching TV or playing computer games is thought to increase your risk of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes, as well as weight gain and obesity. Not only should you try to raise your activity levels, but you should also reduce the amount of time you and your family spend sitting down. People of all ages should reduce their sedentary behaviour.
Crucially, you can hit your weekly activity target but still be at risk of ill health if you spend the rest of the time sitting or lying down.
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Fun Family Walks by Simon Deacy
who did not exercise. No matter where we live, there will be places to get out of the house and enjoy the great outdoors. Throughout the United Kingdom there are some of the most beautiful landscapes and scenery preparation for a charity climb of Mount Kilimanjaro, I have been out walking, and I had forgotten just how beautiful our surroundings are.
at some relatively easy ways to reverse that trend. Leading As a fun activity, walking is low cost but a great family activity, which can also be educational. It is suitable for most people, and it is an activity that grandparents. The children may complain
awareness. The options are not simply, train in a gym or do nothing. There are a myriad of activities in between, and in this article, enjoyment of regularly taking a family walk. Physical activity does not have to be vigorous or done for long periods for it to of inactive women, even 75 minutes a
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their Xbox or Playstation, but in no time, they will be enjoying the exercise, their surroundings and even some of the learning.
Taking a walk regularly, is probably the least stressful and arduous way to shake off those unwanted pounds, improve your risk of many serious health conditions. you have become too sedentary, walking is the ideal solution. Even on a family walk, you can go at your own pace and cover a distance that suits you. The from wildlife, historical landmarks, sights, sounds and adjoining activities, there is plenty there to keep people interested. The same things will take your mind off the walk, so you wont even realise that you are ‘exercising’.
important thing is that you make your walk a pleasure. Find walks in the early days that you enjoy. This might be a River Bank, Coastal Path, historic route, or visiting a particular attraction. My advice is to make an event out it, packing a picnic, print off maps, take a compass, pack a book on birds, foliage or the history of the area. Walking along the Taff Trail on the weekend I came across a tiny bit of rail track on the side of the river with a plaque, telling me that a tram line used to run along there many moons ago.
Walking is called a ‘weight bearing
Reduced risk of heart disease and stroke; Improved management of conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, joint and muscular pain or stiffness, and diabetes; Stronger bones and improved balance; Increased muscle strength and endurance; and
If you go as a family and pack a picnic, the children will love it, and if the children are young, there are plenty of things to point out in support of their learning and education. Some children might like to collect leaves, make a scrap book or take photographs of the wildlife you come across. Get off the roads and pavements onto river banks, canals, trails and cross country footpaths and there is loads to keep the children occupied. You never know, they might even start asking to go out for a walk in the future.
Reduced body fat. If you are over-weight now, the weight loss won’t happen overnight. But, it will happen, if you start to walk regularly.
If you haven’t exercised in a while, or you are conscious of your weight, the
and well-being, my advice is to use a pedometer. There are some decent ones as apps for mobile phones, or you can get one for a couple of pounds on the High Street. A pedometer measures steps, distance, speed and calories burned, and allows you to track your improvement. Enjoy your walking, I am! Twitter
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Four Nations Deaf Golf Championships 2013 by Sarah Lawrence
The Vale is a fantastic venue, located the M4 motorway. The training home of the Welsh RFU, the Cardiff Blues and newly promoted Premiership side, Cardiff City, the Vale Resort, is renowned for developing sporting excellence.
giving them a 10 shot gap over Run biennially, on the odd numbered years, this year’s Championships are being hosted by the Wales Deaf Golf Association from Monday 5th August to Friday 9th August, at the wonderful Vale Resort, in the Vale of Glamorgan. The Championships are contested by teams from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, with teams made up of players who are Hard of Hearing or Deaf. The format for the tournament is a full 18 holes pairs better-ball, match play, based on the number of holes won (for example a hole won is awarded one point, halved hole awarded half a point and zero points for a hole lost) which is then accumulated at the end of the match.
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The competition will be played on the National Course, the trickier and more challenging of the 2 golf courses. The Vale also boasts a decent driving range, providing golfers with an excellent facility to warm up and perfect the swing. Long and narrow in places, the National Course is picturesque, with wooded areas in the opening holes, replaced by water hazards on the back nine. For families, friends and spectators, the facilities on site are excellent, with a top class hotel offering all of the facilities you would expect from a top class venue. meals at very affordable prices, and is a great place to sit and ponder why your score was quite so high on the National Course. The organisers are hoping to attract spectators and supporters to the event, to cheer on their national team! With the Welsh on home soil, who will collect the coveted trophy this year?
Golf Development Wales by Sarah Lawrence
Golf Development Wales (GDW) Bid. GDW is the development arm of the Golf Union of Wales between the Golf Union of Sport Wales.
chance to take up the game. Recognising that Deaf and Hard of Hearing people face some barriers of entry to golf, GDW deaf people to get involved. I was delighted to be able to support this programme and I have attended a number of taster sessions with brand new golfers at the Vale Resort. I arranged for newcomers to attend a taster session and under the expert eye of local professional Clive Coombes, they were introduced to the fun of ‘whacking’ golf balls. Judging by the smiles all round, it was great fun. Commenting on the initiative Zoe Thacker from GDW said, “Golf development Wales are really excited about our new partnership with the Welsh Deaf Golf Association. We aim to promote the opportunities available to the deaf community to learn and take up such a great sport as golf. In the future we hope we can increase the number of deaf people playing golf, especially juniors and ladies, whose numbers are quite low in Wales at the moment. It’s an exciting project so if you fancy making new friends and taking up a new hobby, please get in touch! Golf is a sport for life.” Further Deaf Friendly taster sessions are out more, please send an email to sarah@
GDW facilitates the growth and health of the sport via a number of initiatives outlined in their ‘Securing the Future’ strategy.
the right people.
GDW’s overarching mission is to help develop a network of thriving clubs to ‘secure the future’ of Welsh golf, and generate opportunities for all to take up and remain within the sport for life.
gone so well that we have since returned to a driving range to hit a few more balls.
Underneath the mission statement is a wide range of activities that are focused on supporting existing clubs and reaching out to new golfers. Ultimately, it is hoped that over 70,000 people will be given the
We have found GDW to be an excellent initiative and one that has already attracted
www.golfdevelopmentwales.org
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An Insight into Paula Craig – Inspirational Speaker by Simon Deacy
time,” Paula recalls, “but life moves on. People rallied around me, and a senior me if there was anything he could do for me, just ask. So I did, I asked for my job back, and he was good to his word.”
In its pursuit of speaking to inspirational people, SL First has been given an exclusive opportunity to talk to Paula Craig. Paula is a Detective Inspector in the Metropolitan Police Service and in 2005 she was awarded an MBE for Services to the Police in the New Year Honour’s List. In addition to her policing career, Paula is also an inspirational speaker. With 26 years policing service, Paula considers that she has had a great career, but it has been far from straightforward.
Paula spent 21 weeks in the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital and a further 6 months convalescing at home before returning to work on the Flying Squad in April 2002, the day after competing in the Wheelchair London Marathon, less than a year after the accident. In completing the complete the course both as a runner and a wheelchair athlete.
Paula joined the Metropolitan Police Service in 1986, having worked for two Thomas’ Hospital, London. She joined the CID in 1992 and, in 1996, was posted to the National Crime Squad. A keen amateur runner, Paula ran the London Marathon 1995-2000 with a personal best time of 2hrs 57 minutes in 2000, placing 48th female overall. Paula competed in triathlon in 2000/2001 but, whilst training for a World Championship age group qualifying race in May 2001, she was hit by a car whilst out cycling, leaving her paralysed from the waist down. “It was devastating at the 54
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One of life’s tough cookies, Paula completed the Pembrokeshire Olympic Distance Triathlon (1500m sea swim, 40k hand-cycle, 10k ‘run’) in June 2002, and 10 days later, completed the Bournemouth Olympic Distance Triathlon. In Aug 2002, she competed at the Triathlon World Championships in Cancun, Mexico winning the gold medal for Athletes With a Disability (wheelchair category). She went
on to compete at both the 2003 and 2005 World Championships winning the gold medal at each.
Psychology Studies with Criminology as a distance learner with the University of East London.
Paula also competed in the 2003 and 2004 Wheelchair London Marathon coming 3rd and 2nd respectively, and took part in a number of other International marathons. Paula’s determination and tenacity received recognition in 2003 when she was honoured with the Helen Rollason Award for Inspiration, at the Sunday Times Sportswomen of the Year Awards.
Through her life experiences and policing connections, Paula has been given the opportunity to address a wide range of people at different events across the UK. “I like nothing more than speaking at schools, colleges and young people’s events. They are always polite and respectful, taking great interest in my story, and quite often thanking me for inspiring them at the end of the talk.”
A series of bone infections has meant Paula has been unable to compete since 2005, although she still swims and she has not ruled out the possibility of another London Marathon as she has a determination to make it to 10! “Life is all about goals and ambitions,” she says, “they are what drives me as an individual, and gives me a sense of achievement.” In her professional life, Paula was promoted to Detective Sergeant in 2003, and to Detective Inspector in 2005. She considers herself to be fortunate to have spent the past 10 years working within Homicide and Serious Crime in both proactive and reactive roles. “Being able to maintain my professional career is testament to how far the Police Service has moved in its management of, and approach to, disability,” she explained. Not one to rest on her laurels, Paula is currently undertaking a degree in
In addition to achieving her personal goals, Paula is keen to undertake far more speaking engagements. She has joined a new management company run by veteran Paralympian John Harris and SL First’s Simon Deacy, to help her secure those opportunities. “John and Simon are straight-talking, nononsense professionals, who will make a great success of their speaking agency business. I have known John for years, and the fact that he is going to climb Mount Kilimanjaro at the age of 68 and in a wheelchair, tells you all you need to know about him. Whilst I seek to inspire others, John inspires me,” proclaimed Paula. If you would like to discuss booking Paula for an event or enquire about her availability please call 01600 729180 or email:
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Susy Evans - Olympic Torch Bearer by Sarah Lawrence
Following a visit to Dyfed
Susy is responsible for collecting all Dyfed Powys Police. After 23 years of practice, she’s pretty good at it. Susy was born profoundly Deaf but she can hear Consequently, she has never learned to learn some now. Growing up, Susy remembers bullies teasing her, “it was a challenge, but ultimately it did’t stop me doing anything,” she says, “I just thought they spirit, is something that has gone on to
Susy is 42, and she has worked for Dyfed Powys Police since she was just 19. If you visit the Police Headquarters in to Susy in a glass presentation cabinet behind the main reception area.
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time Susy reached school years, she can’t remember having any particular problem as a consequence of her being Deaf. She was given an extra teacher to help her through each class, and subsequently went on to pass all of her exams at GCSE and A Level. At the age of 18, Susy took up karate. She told SL First, “I have been hooked
ever since. I love the beautiful art moves called kata which means form. Kata is a sequence of moves with invisible attackers all around you.” Modestly, Susy tells us that she competed both nationally and internationally, winning 10 Gold, 5 Silver, and 10 Bronze medals, at various competitions. This is not a lady to be messed with!
Amongst many proud moments in her career, Susy recalls her delight at being named the Young Achiever by HRH the Queen, in a ceremony that took place at Buckingham Palace. Susy is keen to support others, especially children, “I love teaching kids,” she tells gain their grades or win a competition is good enough for me.” Her passion for karate comes out in her teaching, and she has subsequently gone on to be recognised as the Community Coach and Volunteer of the Year. Not content with sitting back and watching her protégés a Welsh Judge, meaning she will now be For lots of Deaf people, Susy still believes that bullying is a force to be reckoned me!” she says in a no nonsense manner.
We had to ask Susy about being an Olympic Torch bearer, and instantly you can see just what a special moment that was for her. “I was stunned to be named as a torch bearer,” she told us, “I felt honoured and touched to be selected.” Susy told us that apart from having her children, carrying the Olympic torch was the best day of her life. She recalls that ‘her’ day was blessed with beautiful weather and a crowd of about 2,000 turned out to cheer her on. “My family, especially granddad and kids, were so proud!” on display in Police Headquarters. “It is better than just sitting at home collecting dust,” she tells me. “I think it’s nice to remind people of the Olympic days.” Pleasingly, Susy tells us that she does take it out for school visits, and the interest in the Olympics has meant she has done about 20 visits so far, with nearly 2000 photographs taken just for that one torch. Not that she is counting! Susy’s karate classes are open to anyone, and she does have two Deaf students who have been with her for a year. “Hopefully, they will inspire more Deaf people to join in the future,” Suzy said. “Karate is for everyone including disabled, deaf and any age, young or old!” Thinking back on her life, and thinking about society today, we asked Susy if she had a message to Deaf youngsters. “Don’t let anyone stop you from doing what you want to do,” she offered determinedly. “Life is too short! Go for it! What have you got to lose!” If you want to learn about Susy or her karate classes you can access further information on her website at
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Deaf Sports Personality of the Year by Sarah Lawrence
especially football, cricket and tennis. Fresh from education, Richard began work as an apprentice with British Design Engineer in Aerospace for 27 years, Richard has been working with Airbus UK at Filton for the last 11 years, designing and developing the new landing gears for the A380 and A350. Jackie was born and grew up in Hull, and was keen on sports from a young age, especially rugby league and football. In the 1990’s she played for Hull City Ladies FC and won a bronze medal in the 2005 Britain Deaf Women’s Football Team. For the last 15 years she has worked for Hull
the Deaf Sports Personality of the Year Awards 2012 at in Coventry last year. It was a
Richard and Jackie discussed setting up the Deaf Sports Personality of the Year Awards whilst guests on BBC’s equivalent in 2008. Richard had attended the event for several years and in 2008 when they were together, both Jackie and Richard felt that Deaf sportspeople were being overlooked. From that moment on they decided to pursue the Deaf Awards.
many Deaf sportspeople. Events happen on their own. Having had such a fantastic time, and helped in the judging on behalf of the Home Countries of Wales for the awards, I was keen to interview the people who introduced and organise the Awards, Richard Weinbaum and Jackie Harrison, the story behind the Awards. Richard was born in High Barnet and grew up in Hertfordshire. Richard developed a passion for sports, most 58
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Photographs courtesy of DSPY
The Deaf Sports Personality of the Year Awards subsequently came to fruition. Run biennially, the Awards ceremony formally recognises the sporting achievements of Deaf individuals, teams and organisations in the UK and from overseas, and they have proved very
in their won right, both Richard and Jackie believe the Awards have a wider and deeper purpose. “We think it’s important to recognise achievement and how sport plays its explained Richard. “It’s important for the young generation to look up to role models because there is a lack of media coverage of Deaf sports, and we are trying to build greater awareness of what is being achieved from scratch.”
The Awards are driven through community engagement, with nominations being made by Deaf and hearing people using an on-line process. For each nomination a brief supporting summary is needed, and completed forms are then sent to national Deaf judges for consideration.
“We had a panel of six national Deaf judges, three sportsmen and three sportswomen, with judges coming from Northern Ireland, North England, South England, Midlands, Scotland and Wales,” Jackie said. “Once we collated the nominations from the public, they were passed to the judges who had to decide
on the six most deserving athletes for the main award, and three athletes for other awards such as Young Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, Team of the Year, Unsung Hero, Fan of the Year and Overseas Sport of the Year.” As one of those judges I have to tell you it was not easy! The winner, runner up and third place for the main award, were then decided by people voting live at the Awards ceremony using keypads. It was really exciting! For other awards, the judges had to decide on the winners of each award after picking three deserving shortlisted nominees about a month before the ceremony, and the winners were announced on the night.
Around 430 guests attended the Awards ceremony, and that made for a fantastic evening. Funding is critical and the level of support ensures that Richard and Jackie are not left out of pocket and some funds are raised to support Deaf sports. From the DSPY2012 Awards budget, £1,000 will go to the GB Deaf Badminton team to help them prepare for their European Deaf Badminton Championships 2014 in Switzerland. The good news, is that funding is already in place to make sure the Awards go ahead as planned over the next four years. Readers of SL First can support the Deaf Sports Personality Awards by visiting www.dspy.co.uk for the updated status, Twitter @dspyawards, facebook or email us via dspy@dspy.co.uk If you are interested in donating or sponsoring the event for DSPY2014, please email to Twitter
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Listen Up! by Brian Seaman
affecting Deaf guests, from wake up calls to ordering room service. They can be found on the VisitEnglandBiz YouTube channel: www. youtube.com/VisitEnglandBiz . Listen Up! is designed to help tourism businesses become more Deaf aware, and attract even more Deaf or Hard of Hearing visitors. Following the advice and improving the enjoyment of guests is expected to build customer loyalty and subsequently improve business prospects. Chief Executive of Action on Hearing Loss, Paul Breckell, said, “People with hearing travelling both for business and pleasure. We are delighted to be working with Visit England to publish the Listen Up! guide. It will help tourism businesses improve the accessibility of their services for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, invest in hearing loss support and generate more income.”
It is estimated that more than 10 million people in the UK (one-sixth of the population) have some form of hearing loss, and Listen Up! is packed with information, advice and examples of best practice for providing these customers with a warm welcome and an excellent visitor experience. It also highlights key issues for business owners when accommodating Deaf or Hard of Hearing visitors, including: Safety – How to put adequate evacuation procedures in place to alert guests with hearing loss in case of an emergency. Communication – Advice for staff when speaking to someone with hearing loss, and information on disability awareness and sign language training courses. Facilities – Information on equipment that can assist guests with hearing loss such as hearing loops and text phones, as well as advice on completing an Access Statement - a written description of a venue’s facilities and services, to inform people with access needs. The national tourist board has also released a series of short videos highlighting the experiences of Deaf guests when staying in hotels in England. The videos are designed to alert business owners to a range of issues 60
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In addition to being available free of charge at www.visitengland.org/access, copies of Listen Up! will be included free in the Summer issue of Quality Edge (July/August), VisitEngland’s bi-annual magazine for its 16,000 quality
scheme participants, containing the latest industry news, case studies, articles, advice on marketing and best practice and much more.
When visiting hotels I recommend that anyone let staff know at check-in. This will allow the staff to put a device in place to protect you. During my visits I have noticed that some general managers do not like clutter on their reception desks, so the ‘hearing ear’ signage is dispatched to the bin – or hidden - without a thought about how informative it might be for some guests on arrival.
The Listen Up! guide will help tourism businesses improve the accessibility of their services for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, invest in hearing loss support and generate more income Paul Breckell - Chief Executive of Action on Hearing Loss
This is just one of a new stable of informative guides aimed at the tourism industry, who still, in some cases, have a very rigid view on what ‘access’ means for guests, usually revolving around the image of a wheelchair! This is because it is the international symbol of disability, but at the same time, it probably only represents about 6-8% of people who need adjustments to feel safe, secure and welcome when visiting hotels and guest houses. When I spoke at the conference of the National Association of Deafened People (NADP) in Durham last year, some of the issues that are in ‘Listen Up!’ were covered, as can be seen in the NADP newsletter: www.nadp.org.uk/wp/ wp-content/uploads/network/nw107.pdf At the conference, the principal concerns of delegates were those of safety and communication – understandably - and roughly in that order. Some guests with a hearing loss might be prepared to share their mobile number so that they can be texted, with their phone on vibrate, in the event of an emergency. You might like to suggest this if no other device is available.
I am very supportive of VisitEngland’s campaign to help educate the tourism industry about the needs and requirements of guests with a hearing loss. If you have the inclination and are visiting a hotel or staying at accommodation, do point them towards ‘Listen whole new world!
Brian Seaman is an Associate at Access New Business; an Access Advisor to Tourism for All; and has also developed www. accessibleoutlook.com - a website to support tourism business when they wish to become more accessible. He is also a member of the Access Association.
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Travel with Heather and Tammy: Tokyo, Japan consideration of the people who want to leaf out of their book for sure!
Heather, who had not been to Japan before, it was a cultural shock. Tammy had been to Japan ten years previously on a youth exchange programme.
Heather’s highlights Tammy told me that she saw my jaw drop many times in awe at my surroundings. She was right, Japan was different to anything I had seen or experienced in my lifetime. Its culture was unique and quite different to the western countries I had visited. When we arrived to meet our hosts at the airport, they took us back to their home via the metro system. We queued on the JR Line, and I expected to be packed in like sardines as we entered the carriage, seeing as Tokyo was one of the world’s busiest cities. This wasn’t the case. Our hosts Chi and Toshi pulled us back and told us to queue at the sides as the people came out of the carriage in the middle. I remember telling Tammy that this was nothing like London’s Underground system where everyone just rushes into the carriage without 62
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Heather & Tommy with hosts Chi & Toshi We arrived in Kawasaki, where our hosts invited us into their own home. It was nothing like ours. It was very Japanese, and very clean. We were not allowed to wear our shoes inside the home, and had to wear slippers except when we were in bedrooms and the living room. Both Tammy and I had problems remembering to take them off in the bedroom, so we had to keep reminding each other! Also, the bathroom had its own slippers. Every toilet I sat down on in Tokyo had buttons on them with features of buttock wash, buttock air dryer, and a button where you can play music to overlap the sound of urine and faeces passing! I think that was toilet! On the 25th of February, an earthquake with a magnitude of 5.7 hit Tokyo. Tammy and I were in our bedrooms texting, then suddenly I noticed that my chest was shaking for about ten seconds. We both
looked at each other really confused, and then we laughed, going what the hell was that?! We asked Chi and Toshi about this, but they did not even feel it. We concluded that they and many Japanese are so used to earthquakes that they don’t feel anything except for the severe ones. I had one of the best days of my life in Tokyo, and that was going to a deaf school called the Mensei Gakuen for the Deaf, located on the outskirts of the city. All the learning there is done via Japanese sign language (JSL). What we witnessed in the classrooms, were students fully understanding what was explained to that their teachers understand them, which is sadly not the case for most deaf students in the UK. Once you enter Meisei Gakuen, you enter the world of sign language which we found overwhelming. We were invited to give a little talk to a group of students aged 4 to 6, explaining where we were from in Japanese Sign Language. I have never felt so proud of myself in doing something so rewarding on the other side of the world. We were bombarded with questions from the students about our backgrounds which I found very cute. I remember one question from a student from Tokyo to London. Another student explained where she was from. Her mother was from Thailand and her father Japan, and they moved to Japan for her education. Tammy and I were astounded by the level of her intelligence, to be able to explain in depth, in rich sign language, at the age of 6.
when it would have taken us around 8 to 10 hours by car. The staff on the train were dressed like the air crew you would expect on an airplane. I saw a lady staff member bless the room we were in by bowing down before she left the carriage; this was customary in Japan. It made me think, where are our customs, in this country? I believe that travelling is an education itself. I found Japan a very clean and respectful country and I am already itching to go back again, but for longer this time, to explore around the country. Japan is somewhere that tends to get missed off most people’s travel lists and they don’t know what they are missing. So, if you want a unique experience that you won’t forget in a long time, Japan is the place to go.
Tammy’s highlights When I knew that I was going back to Japan after 10 years, I was really excited. When I stayed in Japan 10 years ago for one month – I enjoyed the culture & experience. I knew Heather would have the same experience I had 10 years ago. I can relate to her feelings. market, Tsukiji in Tokyo. We had to get up early in the morning and got there for 7.30am and queued to get in a sushi restaurant. It was freezing waiting because the restaurant only had about 8 seats. It was worth the wait because the sushi was so fresh.
One of my favourite things in Japan was the Shinkansen, which is the Japanese bullet train, reaching speeds of 200mph. The trains would put the UK’s railway system to shame. We went to Kyoto from Tokyo on the Shinkansen in two hours Twitter
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Heather was not keen on sushi, but I managed to persuade her to try them. We had different sushi laid out by sushi chefs which they made in front of us. It was the best fresh sushi I ever had in
Heather have a go with him. His face dropped when Heather beat him! But it was so funny.
market watching them cutting up frozen of were there.
With the chef in Fusao Restaurant They were all so friendly. If you want to see what deaf culture is like in Tokyo I recommend that you visit the restaurant, they will approach you and will take an interest in you. Fact about Tsukiji – is best known as one over 2,000 tons of marine products every day! We visited a Deaf restaurant in Shinju-Ku. The restaurant, called Fusao was owned by a Deaf chef with his hearing wife. They showed us how they cooked food in the kitchen, which was nice of them, as many restaurants wouldn’t do that. That night, a deaf group were keen to learn BSL, so we shared BSL and learned JSL at the same time. It was fun.
The bullet train to Kyoto was a fabulous experience. The train was so fast and smooth. Inside the train, the leg space was so spacious, much better than British trains! When we arrived in Kyoto, we stayed in a capsule hotel. Amazing experience – we were so hungry we went out in the pouring rain and found a lovely small restaurant that served Kyoto foods. We were in heaven. We sat in front of a kitchen with a chef cooking food in front of us.
Chef cooking at Kyoto food restaurant Heather teaching BSL Then a deaf Japanese man wanted to arm wrestle with me, but I lost and suggested 64
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We had Okonomiyaki – a Japanese savoury pancake, Yaki soba noodles, Tonpeiyaki (similar to Okonomiyaki but made of sliced pork and eggs) it was to die for! I was surprised that it was cheap!
Next day we went on a tour of Kyoto which is known as the ancient capital. If you want to see the real Japan, this is the place to go.
Heather & Tammy with a group of Maikus The tour took us across Kyoto to worldrenowned temples, shrines, and palaces
Caroline’s Rainbow Foundation is a registered UK charity working to raise awareness of the importance of safe travel to young people, whether they are going abroad for independent travel, gap year placements, organised tours or simply thinking about visiting a different country. We are currently looking to expand our website and increase accessibility to the deaf community by providing information and risks of world travel. We are looking for Travel safety tips, travel stories and any places or websites that
like Nijo Castle, Sanjusangendo, Kiyomizu a group photo with a couple of maikus!
I was so pleased to be back in Japan after 10 years. I recommend everyone to visit for a holiday! Tammy Broskom is a Deaf comedian, presenter and MC, she co-created the Deaf spoof comedy show - BB Deaf news with her sidekick Micole. You can follow them on facebook – BB Deaf news and Tammy has her own fan page, which is Page. Catch her in action on See hear in October. Requests are welcome.
are friendly and can be used by the deaf community. Our aim is to highlight the importance of travel safety in the deaf community and showcase some of the issues deaf travellers face and solutions or tips to overcome any problems. If you would like to become a part of this project or contribute and share any of your travel experiences please contact Sarah at For more information about our Travel Safety charity please log on to
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The Lucy Dickenson Award has been established to promote and inspire social entrepreneurs in Barry and beyond. Lucy was the founding director of The SAFE Foundation, an international development charity working with people living in poverty all over the world. She was a resident ideas to life. project. Lucy was an UnLtd Award Winner. She received her award in 2010 to recognise her contribution as a social entrepreneur. The SAFE Foundation and UnLtd are delighted to offer this opportunity to other aspiring social entrepreneurs in Barry to make a positive contribution to the people living in Barry, The Vale of Glamorgan, and beyond. into one of the following criteria: Arts, heritage and culture, The Environment, Volunteering, Skills and Livelihoods & Community and Enterprise. Submitions will be shortlisted by a panel of judges and the a winner and that winner will receive up to ÂŁ5000 to develop their idea. They will also get help and support from The SAFE Foundation and UnLtd to see their idea through. For further information contact: 66
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or
BSL Doctor A regular column about issues relating to British Sign Language
We all know that language gets passed down through the generations. It is normal for languages to change over time, though at different rates. For example, Japanese has changed relatively little over 1,000 years, while English has evolved rapidly. Language is a living thing, and no two individuals use language in the same way. The vocabulary and phrases people use depend on where they live, their age, educational level, and other factors. Through our interactions, we pick up new words and sayings and integrate them into our speech. Teens and young adults, for example, often use different words and phrases from their parents. Sometimes language changes for the better making things easier to say. However, some changes occur through laziness or use of new communication platforms, such as social media. Similar things are happening with BSL, with dramatic effect, as few people are aware of the rules of BSL grammar or sign formation. Take the signs for family members. The sign palm with accompanying mouth pattern apart from the London region, where they also use the ‘M’ hand-shape, but tap the hand twice on the head. For ‘father’ and ‘F’ & ‘D’ respectively, tapping them twice. For ‘Son’, the word should be spelled out in full, S-O-N. Unfortunately, what has been creeping in, is that some people actually
use the London/South East regional sign for ‘boy’ to sign ‘son’. This creates confusion, as other regions have different signs for ‘boy’. A lot of hearing people are quite opt for the London/South East regional sign for ‘boy’, as opposed to spelling the whole word correctly. The late BSL poet and teacher Dorothy Miles told us during teacher training that the rules for family names should always be to and ‘daughter’ and the full word for ‘S-O-N’. We hope that once people are aware of the correct way to sign ‘son’, they will go people’s pride in their regional signs may be lost. Another sign in which there is quite a bit of variety across different regions is ‘home’. In the past two years, some people have been opting for just one variety, which has actually been taken from Makaton. rich variety of regional signs for ‘home’, and also for conveying its different meanings. To choose just one sign to cover all the different meanings not only diminishes the richness of regional variations, but it damages the fundamental way in which BSL works. Our Signworld website contains many examples of how the term ‘home’ is used. Subscribers can use the word-search facility variations for how ‘home’ is signed. None of the 20 regional presenters on the Signworld website uses the Makaton sign! For more information, see www.signworldlearn. Twitter
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Making a Complaint by Cathryn McShane, South Wales ASLI Regional Chair
for registered (RSLI) and trainee (TSLI)
professional manner. But, what if you are unhappy with an interpreter? What can you do about it? The Association of Sign Language Interpreters (ASLI) recommends that you as soon as you can. Every registered interpreter will listen to feedback, and wants to know if their clients are unhappy. In some situations, they could solve the problem straight away, for example, if you don’t like a sign the interpreter is using, you can ask them to change their signing to match your preference.
If you feel a formal complaint is required, don’t be deterred by what can seem a a complaint to NRCPD, just set out the circumstances leading you to complain. You might feel more comfortable getting advice or support from a local deaf advocacy service to do this (e.g. BDA, RAD). The full code and complaints procedure are available in English and BSL on the NRCPD website - www.nrcpd.org. uk Complaints can be written using a need to be aware that the deadline for complaints is 30 days from when the problem happened. NRCPD will look at the complaint, and let you know how they are going to deal with it. If NRCPD decide your complaint is correct, they have several options available about the action they take. They can decide: No action is needed (if the situation their best); To write a warning and give advice; The interpreter has to have extra training;
If you are still unhappy with the to discuss with them, you can contact the agency that booked the interpreter However, you can only complain to NRCPD if the interpreter is registered (RSLI or TSLI). If you are unhappy with an unregistered procedure. This is why we recommend you use registered interpreters and always ask to see a NRCPD badge (yellow or blue). 68
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To suspend the interpreter from the register (temporary – for a maximum of 12 months); or To remove the interpreter from the register (strike off) If you want to make a complaint in the future please check the NRCPD website for the most up-todate information.
Interpreters Mr Stephen Brattan-Wilson RSLI (Registered Sign Language interpreter) Mobile: 07595 844133 Twitter: @stephenbw Email: stephen_bw@me.com
Mrs Julie Doyle RSLI & MASLI Mobile: 07787 126431 Twitter: @juliebsl E: juliedoyle.bslinterpreter@yahoo.co.uk
Ms Cathryn McShane RSLI & MASLI
Mr Karl Jenkins RSLI & MASLI
Mobile: 07806 771275 Email: cathryn@bslterp.co.uk www.bslterp.co.uk
Mobile: 07918 640914 Twitter: @karljinx Email: karl@karljenkins.co.uk
Mrs Tracey Pycroft RSLI & MASLI PG Dip NRCPD Registered Lipspeaker
Rachel Jones (nee Young) RSLI & MASLI
M: 07889 065867 Twitter: @tpycroft Email: interpreter@pycroft.co.uk
Mobile: 07758 228653 Facebook: Rachel Jones Email: rachels.young@ntlworld.com
Lynn Delfosse RSLI & MASLI
Olivia Retter RSLI, MASLI, PGDip
PG Dip Mobile: 07702177038 Email: lynndelfosse@hotmail.com
Mobile: 07747 064449 Twitter: @ OliviaRetterBSL Email: olivia.retter@bsl-communication.com Web: www.bsl-communication.com
Sam Hopkins RSLI & MASLI
Could This Be You?
Mobile: 07983476037 Email: samhopkinsbsl@gmail.com Web: www.samhopkinsbsl.com
For more information email
sarah@slfirst.co.uk
Linda Bruce
RSLI & MASLI, NRCPD registered ID number: 1003134 Mobile: 07863844833 Email: Linda.bruce@sky.com
Linda is passionate about working with Deaf people interpreter, registered with NRCPD and is a member the last ten years has worked for the Action on Hearing Loss training team; training and assessing
Team HaDo Ltd. (Claire Dodds and Jen Dodds) Online BSL/English translation and more, UK wide. www.teamhado.com Mobile: 07544 540587 Email: team@teamhado.com
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Sign Video
present have not been made, in cases of emergency, or where the costs involved would be prohibitive.
translation
by Duncan Culley
If we are sent a document, we are able to turn that into a BSL video with a 24-hour turn around, although it is usually quicker than that.
Over For deaf people who prefer to use their own voice, they can receive responses in BSL.
Sign Video provides a remote
Why Use For too long, deaf BSL users have been excluded from walking into public accessing that service, unless an interpreter has been booked in advance.
Sign Video is available throughout the United Kingdom and an increasing number of public bodies and private businesses are signing up to our services in recognition of its value for money and potential to improve customer service to deaf service users. At SignVideo we use the latest technology to bring people together in vision. We want to ensure that everyone has equal access to all communication and information, and we offer all our customers four high quality services which come as standard:
Typically, getting an interpreter needs two weeks’ notice and can be very costly. In some areas of the UK, interpreter coverage is even worse, and the delay even greater. In many cases, and over a prolonged period of time, deaf people have had to get by without any sign language access.
Video Deaf people can make and receive telephone calls in BSL, by using a telephone with a video screen, on which they will access a remote BSL interpreter.
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Remote interpreting
With greater stress on the public purse, some access to interpreter services are getting even worse.
BSL/English interpreter on-line when arrangements to have an interpreter
At Sign Video we are trying to change that, and are seeking to support businesses and public
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sector organisations in being able to communicate effectively with a deaf BSL user. Providing affordable and adaptable solutions, we work with organisations to provide remote access to BSL interpretation in a way that supports the service user, and conforms to the local technical requirements.
What are the We make no charge for cancellations. There is no min charge (interpreters usually 3 hours), and BSL can be accessed instantly, providing a responsiveness that is not otherwise available. SignVideo provides state of the art videophones that are installed on premises. They are perfect for use on information desks to respond to enquiries; at drop-in advice centres; or for last minute or short notice meetings. Our services can also be delivered through the Internet on any computer, and we are currently introducing one-touch access options, for use on iphones, android phones, ipads and tablets.
ages We offer a range of packages and would be delighted to discuss your needs with you.
For standard face-to-face conversations, phone calls, teleconferencing, meetings, or as back up when a regular interpreter is away or makes themselves unavailable at short notice.
approved. Our services currently operate 8am to 6pm Mon to Friday, but this is constantly under review, to ensure we meet customer demand.
SignVideo Contact Centre, St Agnes House 6 Cresswell Park Blackheath, London SE3 9RD
Also to meet any requirements for translation between written English and BSL.
Email: Telephone: Fax: Web:
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Crossword and Brain Training Answers Crossword Answers
Across
Brain Training 4. 42.195Answers metres [MARATHON] 1.
2.
6. Punishment or disadvantage [PENALTY] 12 used x 3 for + lifting 6 รท 7[JACK] = 6 3. 7.aName 8. O colour bucket [PAIL] b State 20 รทpolice 2 x[KGB] 3 รท 3 = 10 10. 11. Award of praise [ACCOLADE] c Trudge 4 x 14 - 24 รท 16 = 2 13. [PLOD] 14. One sixteenth of a pound [OUNCE] d 42 x 2 + 11 รท 5 = 11 6. 15. Beautiful sleek racing feline [JAGUAR]
Sea
Down 1. Inconsistent [ERRATIC] 2. No! It's not valid [ANNUL] 1283. Friendly sandwich [BUTTY] 5. Steep downward plunge [NOSEDIVE] 1 4 9 16 25 36 49 8. Egyptian Ruler [PHAROAH] 9. Someone's strong point [FORTE] 14 miles 10. Organ that removes waste [KIDNEY] 12. Shrill whistle of disappointment d Nose [CATCALL]
(all the others come in pairs)
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Deaf Friendly Council Services by Sarah Lawrence
Deaf and Hard of Hearing
more than any other. If either
of their Deaf and Hard of Bridgend County Borough Council are doing just that, and the staff involved are committed to raising standards. Bev Davies, Customer Service Manager explained, “Access for all is at the heart of our Customer Services Charter and we are working hard to ensure that our Deaf easy to conduct their business with us”. Under the Borough Council umbrella there are a wide range of services, including 74
SL First
refuse collection, education, housing, jobs, health care and transport. This means that Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents may need to contact the Council regularly. To do so, councils need to be accessible, and Bridgend are taking steps to make sure they are. In a visit to the Bridgend County Borough steps being taken with Bev, who is providing the energy behind much of the change, along with the Council’s Diversity
were the signs displayed in the reception area, telling visitors that BSL was available. I asked the receptionist about it, and with a warm engaging smile, she offered to get me someone who could use BSL. The receptionist joked with me about the little BSL she knew, comfortable to do so, and seemingly totally at ease in dealing with me. The reception area was busy and I learned from Bev that Bridgend CBC had decided to introduce a Customer Service that the vast majority of public enquiries could be dealt with in one location. That area was buzzing with activity showing that the public had connected with the decision to change the way enquiries were being dealt with. In support of this change, Bev was keen to ensure all sections of the community were informed about what the council were doing and the services they offered. Having consulted widely with the Deaf Community and Action on Hearing Loss, Bev has already commissioned some BSL translation of information provided to the public. Bridgend CBC are now looking to extend the provision of information in BSL and arrangements are in place for that to be
done. I asked Bev why she felt this was important and she said, “We have the Browse Aloud facility on our website for Blind and sight impaired customers, and Welsh translation for our Welsh speaking customers, so making information available in BSL is the next logical step. We’ll start with the key customer information and then continue to consult with the local Deaf community to prioritise further translations”. In speaking to Bev, I could tell this wasn’t tomorrow issue. There was genuine commitment to making improvements, and Bev had engendered interest from other staff within the council. Through this increased focus on Deaf awareness, Bev along with several staff members were undertaking the ‘Start to Sign’ introduction to BSL, and others had already progressed to Level One. To help the staff learn, Bridgend had bought in those services, providing the maximum opportunity for its staff to learn. I tried having a conversation with one member of staff, and I was delighted that she was me. She was also very comfortable doing so, and along with other staff members, showed a genuine interest in Deaf culture and Deaf points of view. Bev also explained that the council had put in place a brand new service for Deaf BSL users visiting the Customer Service Centre only a week before my visit. “We installed a telephone link to ‘Sign Video’ from our website early in 2013 so we wanted to provide the same on demand service for walk in customers. We have an on demand translation service available for more than 30 other languages. Hearing customers don’t have to wait, sometimes days, for an interpreter to become available, so why should our Deaf and Hard of Hearing customers”. I asked to try out the new service, provided by Sign
Video, and in a jiffy a call handler had put on a head set, and was dialling into the internet based system. Within minutes, I was looking at the screen of a lap top computer with a BSL interpreter looking back at me through the in-built camera. As I signed to her, she spoke to the lady with the headset on and we were able to enjoy a very effective conversation, just as effectively as I could do with an interpreter actually present with me. Some people might have concerns as an option, I thought Sign Video was excellent. As a service supporting a dropin centre, I think it is brilliant and a major step forward. What I liked most is the excitement amongst Bev and the other Council staff about the steps they are taking and the progress they are making in support of the Deaf community. There was an energy and a buzz that I have not witnessed before. Even without Sign Video, the Council had taken great strides of progress, but the addition of Sign Video considerably enhances their accessibility.
about the steps they are taking, and delighted that a Council was taking the issue of Deaf Friendly services very seriously. We need to get the message out to residents in that area so that they know what is available. I also hope to see other councils and public services follow suit. Twitter
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Carmarthenshire County Council The Council provides a variety of services such as Education, Recycling and Social Care. We can provide a sign language interpreter at any appointments you have with us. Please let us know when you make the appointment. You can contact us by: Text Direct - If you use a text phone you can contact any telephone number within the Council by putting 18001 before the number. SMS
SMS – You can text us on 0789 2345678 Customers can also sign up to receive text updates. You can access this service by texting ‘sign up’ to 0789 2345678.
@ Email – direct@carmarthenshire.gov.uk Facebook- www.facebook.com/carmarthenshirecc The Social Care, Health and Housing Department can provide you with specialist equipment around the home and advise you on any benefits to which you may be entitled. You can do this by contacting Careline+ on (18001) 01267 224466 We can give you information about various Deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deafblind clubs in the area.
Cyngor Sir Gâr Mae’r Cyngor yn darparu nifer o wasanaethau fel Addysg, Ailgylchu a Gofal Cymdeithasol. Gallwn drefnu dehonglydd Iaith Arwyddion ar gyfer unrhyw apwyntiadau gyda chwsmeriaid. Rhowch wybod i ni wrth drefnu’r apwyntiad. Gallwch gysylltu â ni drwy: Text Direct - Os ydych yn defnyddio ffôn tecst, gallwch gysylltu ag unrhyw rif ffôn yn y Cyngor drwy roi 18001 cyn y rhif. SMS
Neges destun - gallwch ddanfon neges destun drwy 0789 2345678 Gallwch dderbyn negeseuon gwybodaeth hefyd, drwy ddanfon neges ‘ymuno’ i 0789 2345678.
@ E-bost – galw@sirgar.gov.uk Facebook – www.facebook.com/carmarthenshirecc Gall yr Adran Gofal Cymdeithasol, Iechyd a Thai gynnig adnoddau arbenigol i chi ar gyfer eich cartref. Maent hefyd yn cynnig cyngor ar y budd-daliadau a allai fod ar gael i chi. Cysylltwch â’r Llinell Ofal+ ar (18001) 01267 224466 Gallwn roi gwybodaeth i chi am grwpiau yn yr ardal i bobl Byddar, Trwm eu Clyw neu Fyddar a Dall.