MP urges local schools to sign up to Deaf Friendly Pledge

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 20th Oct 2004

Local MP, Andrew Stunell, is backing the National Deaf Children's Society's (NDCS) new Deaf Friendly Schools Pledge. He is urging more schools in Stockport to sign up to the ten point pledge which will help them improve communication and become more accessible for deaf children.

Andrew Stunell said:

"Two schools in Hazel Grove have already signed up: Warren Wood Primary School and Hazel Grove High School have been really enthusiastic about fostering positive attitudes amongst their pupils towards deafness, and making sure that their schools are deaf aware.

"This is a fantastic initiative by the National Deaf Children's Society. With effective communication, and a supportive environment, deaf children can really be part of the whole school community."

20 schools in Stockport have signed up to the ten point pledge adding to the total of over 900 nationally.

Andrew Stunell added:

"Schools are keen to support deaf children but they just don't have the expertise or know-how to do it. I'm urging every school in Stockport to sign up to the Deaf Friendly ten point pledge so that they can get the support they need to put deaf children on an equal footing to their hearing friends." ENDS