Report calls for greater community inclusion of deaf people

The needs of deaf people in the Isle of Man will be outlined at the launch of a new report today (Tue 16 April).

Called 'A Life Less Equal?' it will raise key issues facing those with severe hearing loss - and call for greater inclusion of deaf people in the community.

The report's expected to outline a growing need for sign language interpreters in public places from hospitals to theatres.

It will be presented to Tynwald members this lunchtime by the patron of the Manx Deaf Society, Lord Bishop Robert Paterson and the Island's deaf 'champion' Gareth Foulkes.

Manx Radio's Judith Ley helped organise special interpreted performances at recent Villa-Gaiety shows.

She's also worked with deaf organisations in the UK and says there's genuine need for more services for deaf people: