Frequently Asked Questions

We will be updating this section as the project evolves, so if there is something you'd like to know that isn't on here then please contact us with your question (the chances are that lots of other youth groups want to know the same thing too!)

Where can I get more information on deafness?

Where can I find out more about deafness, types of technology, services available from NDCS etc?

This is a really easy one for us. You can find out more about NDCS and our services, gain information both online and through our publications by becoming a member!

NDCS is free to join and you can join online today.

Remember to join as an professional member - this now includes anyone working with deaf children and young deaf people, from youth workers to sports coaches to drama leaders. Once you have joined you can benefit from a whole range of information and resources, plus you can order resources for your youth group too, such as fingerspelling cards and posters, deaf awareness leaflets and much more!

Where can I learn sign language?

There are lots of places that you can learn BSL (British Sign Language). These include;

CACDP - The Council for the Advancement of Communication with Deaf People. Their website has a database of sign language courses across the country.
Your local education authority (LEA) will be able to provide you with a list of courses held at further and adult education colleges in your area.
You can find out about BSL courses from Learndirect
Your local deaf centre may also hold BSL courses along with private sign language agencies in your area.

A deaf child wants to join my group, do I need a BSL interpreter?

It is really important that you don't make assumptions about a child's communication methods - see our communication section for further details about the different communication methods that deaf children use (you need to be a member).

Ask them and the child's parents about their communication needs. If the child is a BSL user they may be able to recommend a friend / relative / communication support worker who can assist with BSL translation.

If they specifically ask for a BSL interpreter and you have the funding available to pay for one you can find details of local interpreters via the ASLI Association of Sign Language Interpreters website. Remember not all deaf children or young deaf people will require an interpreter!

Where can I learn how to fingerspell?

Fingerspelling is a great way to introduce people of all ages to sign language! Fingerspelling is used to spell out names of people, places, countries or for words which do not have a sign.

Download a fingerspelling A-Z card today & get you and your group started:

Fingerspelling in British Sign Language (133 kb)