About us
Deaf Action exists to support the diversity of deaf people, including deaf users of British Sign Language (BSL), and those who are deafened, deafblind or hard of hearing. Our work is geared towards empowering all deaf people to achieve their potential and fully participate in society, with equality of rights, access and opportunity.
We were established in 1835 , and have been at the forefront of progress and change ever since. We are very proud to be a deaf-led organisation. Almost half of our staff are deaf, and many more have grown up with deaf parents or siblings. We truly understand the challenges deaf people face, and believe that our collective experience allows us to honestly position ourselves as experts in unlocking deaf people’s potential.
Our vision
Inclusive communities free from barriers, where deaf people can fulfil their potential and thrive.
Our mission
To empower deaf people to achieve their potential and participate in society, with equality of rights, access and opportunity.
Our values
Learning
We share our learning and seek to learn from others in order to drive improvements.
Support
We reach out and offer personalised support, recognising that every deaf person has unique needs and preferences.
Collaboration
We form meaningful partnerships to meet local needs, addressing the gaps between services.
Experience
We value leadership informed by lived experience and believe that the needs and preferences of deaf people should be at the heart of all we do.
Celebration
We value people from all backgrounds, focus on their potential and strengths. We celebrate a positive deaf identity.
Our social aims
Access
We strive for equality of access to information, advice and services.
Inclusion
We improve social inclusion, supporting people to become active citizens.
Wellbeing
We promote good health, empowering people to live independently, and caring for them when they no longer can.
Achievement
We empower people to achieve through meaningful learning and the development of essential skills.
Identity
We celebrate deaf culture, heritage and language, offering nurturing community spaces and a sense of belonging.
Deaf Action has a proud history…
Since our beginnings on Leith Street in Edinburgh over 180 years ago, we are proud to have been at the forefront of many major achievements – in fact, we were the first formally constituted deaf organisation in the world.
