Limerick students join in deafblind project

A NEW initiative is underway by students of Scoil Mhuire agus Ide in Newcastle West as they create more resources for students of Ireland’s deafblind community.

The Deafblind Literacy Project is one of 55 chosen by the Toy Show Appeal through the Community Foundation for Ireland and their goal is to adapt, alter or create a book, nursery rhyme, recipe, or instruction manual for the benefit of a deafblind child.

Tara Hayes, teacher with Scoil Mhuire agus Ide has described the determination her students have shown towards helping this charity. “It was completely voluntary to take part,” she began. “They are in the middle of completing their projects and are giving up their lunchtimes to help to do this.”

“The kids were given a list of concept ideas and have been working to decide what to create from things they have at home,” said Tara.

Regarding the hard work of the students, Tara adds that “we have students of all age groups participating, so older students are helping younger students,” she said. “They’re doing fantastic work and I’m very proud of them.”

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The aim of the project is to increase learning, communication and personal development amongst children who are deafblind, while also fostering a sense of social concern and understanding in students who are giving their time.

According to Tara Hayes, deafblindness is not yet a recognised disability in Ireland, resulting in a limited amount of resources available at this time for students who are deafblind. Gemma Phair, from the Anne Sullivan Foundation discussed the importance of this project and ways that it will help students.

Among many other benefits, Gemma said: “this is majorly important because it promotes their independence,” she began. “It lets them learn the same way as their peers, and helps their imagination develop.”

With over 900 children helped last year, this is the second year of the appeal, and according to Gemma, the adapted books will be given to schools which support these students, or indeed to libraries who are involved.

The Anne Sullivan Foundation is the only organisation in Ireland to specifically support people with dual sensory loss.

For information on resources, contact Gemma on 0851384397.