CHESTER Business Improvement District (BID) is set to improve d/Deaf people's experience of the city thanks to a collaboration with sensory loss charity, DSN.

Accessibility for those who are deaf or have lost some or all of their hearing will look to be greatly improved following a series of new initiatives funded by Chester BID, including a pottery workshop at Pictura and the Women of Chester History tour, both delivered in British Sign Language (BSL).

Chester BID has created a partnership with Cheshire and North Wales charity DSN - which will also deliver Deaf Awareness Training sessions for BID members. These sessions include communication barriers and solutions, basic British Sign Language and information on correct terminology and the latest technology.

Luka Morrell, Business Engagement Manager said: "Customer service is at the forefront of our businesses’ minds - so improving the experience for those visiting the city is top on the priority list. The Deaf Awareness Training sessions sold out within a matter of days and there is demand for more, which just shows you that accessibility is also high on the agenda too."

Deaf with a capital D refers to people who have been deaf all their lives. Being deaf with a lowercase d refers to people who have a hearing loss and/or who have become deaf.

One in five people in the UK have a hearing loss and or are Deaf. Gill Reeder, Executive for DSN, an organisation that has been supporting d/Deaf people to live independent fulfilling lives for over 45 years said she was delighted to see the enthusiasm from businesses.

"We would like to thank Chester BID for their investment to try and make Chester a more accessible place for d/Deaf people. Simple communication strategies, like facing people when you are talking to them, speaking at a normal volume and using a normal lip pattern are effective ways that will instantly improve the experience in shops, bars, restaurants and professional services in the city, but those attending will get lots more tips and advice," Gill said.

"We look forward to the partnership flourishing and getting feedback from the d/Deaf community on how we can keep improving the experience here in Chester alongside DSN," added Luka.

Upcoming events:

Thursday, March 23, 2pm-3.30pm – Pictura Pottery Class, with BSL interpreter from DSN funded by Chester BID. Book here: www.picturastudios.co.uk/book-a-class

Wednesday, April 19, 5.30pm – Women of Chester Tour with BSL interpreter from DSN funded by Chester BID. Book via the Chester Visitor Information Centre or call 01244 405340.

For more information on future Deaf Awareness Training contact luka@chesterbid.co.uk. For information on DSN or book a FREE hearing test, go to www.dsnonline.co.uk or email dsn@dsnonline.co.uk.