Empowering Deafblind Lives: Our New Wellbeing Project in East Renfrewshire

We are excited to announce a new wellbeing project, "Don’t Worry be Happy", designed specifically to support Deafblind people in East Renfrewshire. This initiative will provide regular contact and support tailored to individual preferences, whether through phone calls, FaceTime, email, or home visits. Funded by the Community Mental Health and Wellbeing fund, distributed by The Community Hub East Ren and The Scottish Government, this project aims to improve the quality of life for Deafblind individuals in the community.

Understanding the Challenges Faced by Deafblind People

Living with both hearing and vision loss presents unique challenges that affect communication, social interaction, and access to services. Deafblind individuals often experience isolation because traditional communication methods may not work effectively for them. This isolation can lead to increased feelings of loneliness and mental health struggles.

Many Deafblind people rely on a combination of communication methods, including tactile signing, braille, lip-reading, or technology-assisted communication. However, access to regular, meaningful contact can be limited, especially in rural or less connected areas.

How Our Wellbeing Project Supports Deafblind People

Our project focuses on providing consistent, personalised contact to Deafblind individuals in their preferred communication format. This flexibility is key to ensuring that support is accessible and meaningful. Here’s how we approach this:

• Phone Calls: For those comfortable with voice communication or using relay services.

• FaceTime: Video calls with sign language interpretation or visual aids.

• Email: Written communication for those who prefer text-based contact.

• Home Visits: In-person support for those who need direct interaction or assistance.

  
  

This range of options allows participants to choose what works best for them, making the support more effective and respectful of individual needs.

Benefits of Regular Contact and Wellbeing Support

Regular contact can have a profound impact on mental health and overall wellbeing. For Deafblind people, this means:

• Reduced Isolation: Frequent communication helps build connections and reduces feelings of loneliness.

• Improved Mental Health: Talking about challenges and receiving emotional support can alleviate anxiety and depression.

• Access to Resources: project workers provide information about local services, assistive technologies, and community activities.

• Empowerment: Feeling heard and understood boosts confidence and encourages active participation in community life.

  
  

How to Get Involved or Access Support

If you or someone you know in East Renfrewshire is Deafblind and interested in receiving wellbeing support, please reach out. Our team is ready to discuss your preferred communication method and schedule regular contact sessions.

You can contact us through:

• Phone: 0141 777 6111

• Email: development@dbscotland.org.uk

  
  

We encourage family members, carers, and professionals to share this information with Deafblind individuals who might benefit from the project.