The Deafblind Convention took place on 6th October attracting more delegates than any other event on deafblindness in the UK.
Over 900 people registered for the Deafblind Convention which, it is believed, makes it the largest event about deafblindness ever held in the UK.
National charity, Deafblind UK hosted the virtual event which saw dual sensory loss experts from across the world run sessions around the theme of Embracing Change. Talks focussed on accessibility, support provision, mental health, academic research, workplace inclusion and many real life stories.
Steve Conway, CEO of Deafblind UK said: “We are immensely proud to be leading the conversation around deafblindness in the UK. This event brought people together from all walks of life and from across the world to talk about a shared interest – embracing change with dual sensory loss. Whether you live with deafblindness, support people who do, or have a professional or personal interest in this area then change is constant. Our expert panel of speakers explored all aspects of the constant change, offering insights into the emotional, practical and linguistic impact, helping us to normalise the conversation around deafblindness.”
Saima Rajasingam from Anglia Ruskin University spoke at the Deafblind Convention about Multidisciplinary and participatory research with and for people with Deafblindness/Multisensory Impairment. She said: We know there is a clear need for research around issues that affect deafblind people, so it is essential to have this space to amplify the voices of deafblind people, share good practice and new approaches to supporting deafblind people. I feel lucky to have been able to attend!
Dr Peter Simcock, Senior Lecturer in Social Work at Birmingham City University presented research on assessing the social care needs of deafblind adults. He said: “As the deafblind population are often overlooked in policy and practice, it was inspiring to see over 900 people with an interest in deafblindness come together to share knowledge, best practice and lived experience. I was delighted to have been involved in the event, and offer my congratulations to Deafblind UK for organising and hosting this accessible, informative and engaging Convention. I very much look forward to the next Deafblind UK Convention in 2023.”
The Deafblind Convention complements Deafblind UK’s learning and development options, which include awareness talks, webinars and tailored learning days.
