KDCS Deaf Expo

Hundreds of deaf and hard of hearing children tried out circus skills, crafts and other fun activities at the 2015 Deaf Expo in Maidstone.

The event, organised by Kent County Council Specialist Teaching and Learning Services, Health and the Kent Deaf Children’s Society (KDCS) brought hundreds of families together to meet new people, get advice and have fun.

Funded by KCC Short Breaks service and KDCS, the expo at Maidstone Leisure Centre was opened by CBeebies’ Phil Gallagher AKA Mr Maker and youngsters got the chance to go swimming, get their face painted, do crafts, and more, all for free.

Roger Gough, KCC Cabinet Member for Education and Health Reform, said: “Deaf children may be the only person with hearing difficulties in their school which means they and their families can feel isolated. We wanted to bring families together across Kent to show them what help is available and help them build their own networks of support, as well as have a lot of fun.”

Louise Henley chair of KDCS said "KDCS aims to provide a community for deaf children and their families in Kent.  The agencies and I involved in arranging this event, have complied a showcase of whats available to deaf children in Kent: covering Education, Health and Social activities.  Deaf children are all too easily isolated in a hearing world, through a general lack of Deaf Awareness and barriers to communication.  We hope this event builds confidence and self-esteem in the deaf children attending and enhances the knowledge of all.  What a truly exciting event."

As well as activities for the children, the event offered stalls with the latest advice and information related to hearing impairment, such as speech and language therapy, assistive equipment, schools and charities.

Kent County Council offers specialised advice, information and support for children with sensory needs and their families. Further information can be found at www.kent.gov.uk.