February 2011 e-news

Teach Yourself British Sign Language
Our book and DVD now has 7 great reviews on Amazon (and five gold stars). Thank you so much to those who have posted them! If you find the reviews useful, click on the ‘helpful’ button.
Why not watch Paul Redfern signing about the process of writing the book on YouTube (there’s a transcript on our website as well).

Calling Deaf Professionals
We are thinking about developing a running blog showcasing a wide range of Deaf Professionals. It could feature photographs and commentaries of interesting Deaf Professionals who are positive role models to students, school leavers and the wider Deaf Community, plus those who work in social services, local councils, in fact everywhere. If you know someone who fits the bill, let us know. Otherwise: watch this space! 

Valentine’s Day: Love your Deaf colleague
February is a romantic month, but how about working on the strength of your relationship with a deaf colleague? Here are some tips to get you started.
1. If an interpreter doesn’t turn up for a meeting, take notes for your deaf colleague (rather than cancelling the meeting and annoying everyone who will then blame the deaf colleague – do check first though).
2.  If you are a line manager then make full use of email and face-to-face meetings to discuss issues with deaf colleagues who may not be in the loop.
3. Choose a pub that isn’t too noisy, or ask your deaf colleague which is the best one to go to for a staff night out.
4. When choosing a restaurant, make sure it is well lit, or ask a deaf colleague which one is most suitable.
5. Be on your deaf colleague’s side. If a venue dims the lights late in the evening, request on their behalf that the lights be kept on for your area for better communication.
Spread the love!

The Full Works
Wish you had the opportunity to move up or move on in your job? Would you like ideas on how to overcome obstacles in your way? Frustrated with communication with your colleagues? Would you like to talk to someone about progressing in your career? Click onto our website for more info so we can support you in the way you want. By the way, this is open to both Deaf and hearing people.   

Art Galleries and Museums: Let us help you expand and support deaf audiences
Are you thinking about how to make your venue more deaf friendly, and want it to be more accessible to deaf visitors and deaf arts practitioners? We will give you practical advice and support which will make your aims easier to achieve and will address your concerns. This can be on a one-off basis, or over an agreed period. Email njc@deafworks.co.uk or give Nick Callow a ring on 020 7689 0033 to discuss your initial ideas. In the meantime why not post your BSL talks on www.magicdeaf.org.uk and Facebook Arts Events London?  

Website
We are continually updating our website. This month our newly improved pages are: ’Legal Reports‘, ‘Laraine Callow’s MBE‘, ‘Coaching you for your interview‘. Have a look! Let us know if there’s anything in particular you would like to see.

P.S. Apologies
We are sorry if you have received this e-newsletter on your personal email. Blame the returning gremlin – our apologies. Simply click on ‘unsubscribe’ below.