Summary
Tina, after a serious brain injury, found a new way to communicate through British Sign Language (BSL). Following an accident in 2018 that affected her ability to speak, she and her husband participated in a TV series that taught BSL to older people. Tina and several residents gained the Level 1 BSL certificate, enhancing communication and community connections.
Key Facts
- Tina fell down stairs in 2018, resulting in a brain injury and speech difficulties.
- She learned British Sign Language (BSL) to help her communicate.
- Tina and her husband, Mark, moved to Hughenden Gardens Retirement Village for support.
- They participated in a BBC series that taught BSL to older residents.
- Rose Ayling-Ellis, deaf since birth, taught BSL in the series.
- Tina obtained a Level 1 BSL qualification and continues to practice.
- Mark now leads regular BSL sessions and has helped turn the village into a community for deaf awareness.
- The village hosts activities like a Deaf Café to engage the local deaf community.
