Digg Community Spotlight: Embracing Our Son's Hearing Loss with the Support of Action Deaf Youth
- Caroline O'Neill
- May 13
- 4 min read
In 2023, I gave birth to the most amazing little boy, George. Like any first-time parent, I was filled with excitement, love and hope for the future. But when George was just eight weeks old, we received unexpected news - he was identified as having a moderate, bilateral hearing loss. By nine weeks, George was fitted with hearing aids, and our world changed overnight.
With no history of deafness in either of our families, we were so shocked and overwhelmed. We were sent home from the hospital with a newborn baby and new technology that we were unfamiliar with, and had to navigate this journey on our own.
My name is Gemma McMullan, and I want to highlight the amazing charity, Action Deaf Youth. They are a remarkable organisation dedicated to supporting deaf children and young people and their families. It’s truly inspiring to witness how they positively impact countless lives every day.
Finding Hope Through Action Deaf Youth
After a few weeks at home with George, we were introduced to a Teacher of the Deaf who referred us to an organisation called Action Deaf Youth (ADY). That referral changed everything.
When I first contacted Julie, Director of Services at ADY, her words stuck with me: “Congratulations on the birth of baby George.” That moment made me stop. Having a baby is such a blessing, and I had been so focused and consumed by his hearing loss that I was overlooking this amazing little human right in front of me. It was a powerful reminder that George’s hearing loss didn’t define him, it was just one part of his beautiful story.
Today, with the support of our family and friends, George is a thriving, energetic, funny two-year-old who thrives in everything he does. He can sign colours, animals, and dozens of everyday words. He even taught the Minister of Communities, Gordon Lyons, some colour signs during a recent visit to ADY!
What Action Deaf Youth Has Done for Our Family
Every Thursday, George and I attend a group called Messy Munchkins, a sensory-rich play session for children aged 0–3 and their parents. These sessions offer high-quality play experiences that allow children to enhance their holistic development. The children enjoy a variety of multi-sensory experiences and have access to stimulating materials for imaginative play. George enjoys all aspects of Messy Munchkins, but particularly he enjoys the activities that get him the dirtiest and that he can eat.
During these sessions, parents are also offered a ‘Sign and Play’ programme where we learn child-friendly signs with a qualified BSL (British Sign Language) tutor, Michelle. From the moment I was made aware George was deaf, I knew I wanted to learn sign language. Guess who stepped in and provided this service… Action Deaf Youth!
They offer free BSL courses to parents. I am about to sit my level two exam this month, and George’s dad is about to complete his level one exam. Having this service has been invaluable to us. It has allowed us to communicate with our son, other deaf children and the staff at ADY. Dean (George's dad) and I have formed great friendships at ADY. We regularly keep in contact with other parents and have play dates outside of our weekly sessions. We know that we have the support from other parents and deaf staff who can provide support and guidance in areas we are unfamiliar with through their lived experiences.
Speaking Up for the Sign Language Bill
With the new legislation being passed for the Sign Language Bill, ADY have had lots of publicity over the past few months. I had the privilege of doing a BBC interview to highlight the importance of the new bill. It was a very nerve-wrecking experience being on the Six O’Clock News, but a real honour to be a representative for parents of deaf children.
Who Are Action Deaf Youth?
I have talked about Messy Munchkins, but Action Deaf Youth are so much more. ADY is a small regional charity set up by a group of deaf adults in 1988 who wanted to create better opportunities for deaf children and young people. At Action Deaf Youth, the mission is clear: to empower deaf youth and help them thrive in a world that can often feel overwhelming.
This charity offers a safe space where young people can express themselves, make friends, and gain the confidence to chase their dreams. From educational programs to social activities, every initiative is designed to uplift and inspire. As parents, we all want the best for our children, and the resources provided by this charity make a significant difference. They not only help our children build valuable skills, but they also foster a sense of community and belonging that is so important during their formative years. The joy and laughter that fill their events are contagious!
Why ADY Needs Our Support
Unfortunately, last year, ADY faced a funding crisis and had to call an emergency meeting with parents. During this meeting, parents grouped together and came up with various fundraising events and activities to help keep vital services running. This charity is a lifeline for so many families. Without it, parents like me would be left without the guidance, support, and community we desperately need.
If you’re a parent of a deaf child or want to support a cause that truly makes a difference, I encourage you to explore Action Deaf Youth. Let’s help them continue their essential work, so every deaf child can grow up with the tools, confidence, and community they need to shine.
Support Action Deaf Youth
You can donate via their website below, or alternatively, you can contact them directly via email or phone.
Website: Action Deaf Youth
Phone: 028 9099 2779
