New research project to investigate experiences and needs of deaf migrants

The experiences and needs of deaf migrants living in London are set to be explored in a new study by researchers at University College London (UCL).

Indie Beedie and Tyron Woolfe, two Deaf academics, will invite 10 deaf migrants to a two-day event next February, with the aim of examining areas for future research, current services and identifying “how to influence policy and policy makers to meet the needs of deaf migrants in the UK”.

The project, which will also look at the “implications” of learning a second language in terms of language development and cognition, comes after researchers encountered evidence that services are “failing to meet the needs of deaf migrants”.

View the announcement from Indie and Tyron in British Sign Language (BSL) below:

With the support of principal investigator Professor Kearsy Cormier, the research will see Indie and Tyron collaborate with organisations deafPLUS, Deafroots and City Lit’s Centre for Deaf Education.

Reg Cobb, CEO of deafPLUS, said: “DeafPlus recognises the need to support deaf migrants in this current climate and delighted to work with UCL developing opportunities for effective support.”

After the event has taken place next year, the researchers say a report will be produced identifying priorities for deaf migrants and areas for future research.

View the announcement from Indie and Tyron in International Sign below:

Mark Hopkinson, head of City Lit’s Centre for Deaf Education, added: “We are pleased to work alongside our colleagues at DCAL [UCL’s Deaf, Cognition and Language Research Centre] to gather data on the needs of migrants.

“The report created will help us to tailor the delivery of our courses to ensure demand is met.”

Photo: DCAL/YouTube.

By Liam O’Dell. Liam is an award-winning Deaf freelance journalist and campaigner from Bedfordshire. He can be found talking about disability, theatre, politics and more on Twitter and on his website.