New Council commitments to our deaf community

Following a motion which was proposed by Councillor Mark Cooper and seconded by Councillor Julie Gilmour, the Council has committed to enhancing services, signing on social media videos and the appointment of a ‘Deaf Champion’.

The motion read:
“That this Council commits to being a Deaf Friendly Council, undertakes to
ensure all council services are accessible to those who are Deaf, commits to
providing signing on social media videos to highlight important events and
announcements within the Council area, promotes the introduction of Sign
Courses for staff, appoints a “Deaf Champion” within the Council and commits
to working with neighbouring Councils and Deaf organisations to promote Deaf
awareness. Commits to signing up to the BDA’s, BSL/ISL Charter to improve
access and rights for Deaf people who use sign language.”

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery said;

“Equality of access to services is a hugely important issue for our Council. We have made really positive progress, but we must continue to recognise and remove any barriers that prevent those with a disability from enjoying our Borough as an outstanding place to live, work and enjoy. I’m proud that we have made these commitments and I know they will be warmly welcomed by deaf people within our local community.”