I am interested in helping the BDA in their 125th year raise funds for the following project "Deaf Roots & Pride" after its successful pilot in Northern Ireland roll out to the rest of UK.

This project will pay for mentors to visit and support deaf children, young people and their families at home. The cost is £70,000 a year for the next 2 years. They have already raised about £40,000 leaving a shortfall of £30,000 a year.

I was VERY fortunate as a child because I was sent to deaf schools where I was able to mix with other deaf peers and grew up with them. They are STILL a very important and BIG part of my life - essential for my mental health and wellbeing as it can be a very lonely place out there in the hearing world. Having them in my life has equipped me to cope well in the hearing world as well for my work, family and social side.

Now with so many deaf schools closed and deaf children being educated in mainstream schools, the isolation and risk of mental health problems are increasing for them. Look at the recent closure of Margate School for the Deaf as an example.

This project will help to bridge this gap for now so I would LOVE your help in raising funds for this. Deaf young people will have the opportunity to receive mentoring support from other Deaf peers who are positive role models, get help to improve their own self-esteem, develop skills in breaking down communication barriers and explore opportunities/options to make best decisions for themselves. Mentors will receive accredited mentoring training and will be CRB-checked.

NOW the FUN bit (hopefully!!) ..............................................

The London to Paris bike ride will be a massive challenge for me and my friends. It will involve 4 days of cycling and covers just under 300 miles (averaging 75 miles a day). Training is now underway.

IMPORTANT NOTE : - I want to make it very clear to you all that we are funding the costs of the challenge ourselves (accommodation, ferry crossing, guides etc) out of our own pockets and EVERY single penny raised here will go to BDA to support the Deaf Roots & Pride project.

MANY THANKS

Caroline Fearon

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