Deaf girl making the arts more accessible

A girl who is severely deaf is helping others in her situation enjoy the arts after she performed a drama showcase at a major event.
Scarlett Batterton from Hemel Hempstead PNL-161207-175553001Scarlett Batterton from Hemel Hempstead PNL-161207-175553001
Scarlett Batterton from Hemel Hempstead PNL-161207-175553001

Scarlett Batterton, 12, from Hemel Hempstead, took to the stage at mac Birmingham after winning Raising the Bar – a competition developed by the National Deaf Children’s Society.

Along with 23 other deaf young people, Scarlett won a weekend masterclass with acclaimed deaf professionals from the arts industry, developing her talent in drama. She then performed in a live showcase for family and friends.

Raising the Bar was launched by deaf actress Sophie Stone – of Doctor Who fame – at the beginning of this year.

She said: “I was so impressed by the high standard of competition entries.

“Having attended RADA I know how vital it is for deaf children and young people to be in an environment where they can build confidence, gain skills and make new friends.

“Deaf children are just as capable as everyone else – we just need to make sure they get the right support.”

Bryony Parkes, Inclusive Activities Implementation Manager for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “We were absolutely bowled over by the talent and enthusiasm of the deaf young people at the showcase.

“Raising the Bar is all about raising expectations to show that deaf children and young people can perform to the same standard as their hearing peers and should get the same chances to take part in activities.

“It was great to hear that so many of the deaf young people feel their confidence and aspirations have grown since taking part.”

There are more than 45,000 deaf children in the UK. The National Deaf Children’s Society helps deaf children and young people thrive by providing impartial, practical and emotional support to them and their families.

For more information about Raising the Bar go to www.ndcs.org.uk/raisingth
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