Celebrating film success – 7 deaf youngsters who helped produce it

'My Life, No Barriers' is a film that highlights the impact hearing loss can have on people. Shown for the first time at the Grosvenor Museum in Chester, seven young deaf people were invited to the premiere in acknowledgement of their roles in the production of the film.

Accompanied by their friends, family and Deaf Active staff, along with other deaf cinema goers, the youngsters arrived in true red carpet style for the premiere in a limousine that had kindly been provided by George Petit & Son.

‘My Life, No Barriers’ depicts a day in the life of a deaf and hearing person, highlighting the challenges faced by the deaf person in dealing with everyday occurrences. Filmed at Media City in Salford by Vision4Dreams, the film also contains interviews with BBC staff, one of whom was deaf and an introduction to the young people who were involved in the project.

Faith Wilkinson, 16, a member of Deaf Active and one of the youngsters involved in the production of the film, said: “It was an excellent evening. It was a powerful presentation and film, highlighting just how lucky we are to have Deaf Active and how busy we have been. No wonder we are all so tired!”

The concept of the film was originally generated by the youngsters by throwing ideas around. They were also given training in scriptwriting, filming, editing and advice on how to pursue a career on media by staff at the BBC.

Gill Reeder, from Deafness Support Network, said: “This was such a fantastic opportunity for our young deaf members. Not only have they learnt some fantastic skills, it has been a brilliant boost to their confidence.”

Members of Deafness Support Network’s youth group, Deaf Active, were also given awards for achievements in a variety of activities throughout 2013, such as camping, fencing, street dance and many more.

“Projects like this highlight how important groups like Deaf Active are to push these youngsters out of their comfort zone and realise their potential, Gill Reader explained. “We’re very proud of what they have achieved.”

The project was made possible by a grant from Cheshire Community Foundation.

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