Deaf Village North West CIC

Based in Blackburn, Deaf Village North West CIC is a Deaf-led community organisation helping Deaf and hard-of-hearing people feel supported, connected and understood. From everyday wellbeing support and supported living to BSL interpreting, training and community events, the team works to make life a little easier and opportunities more accessible for everyone.

More Than Just a Support Service

Tucked away at the historic Moon Mill in Pleasington, Blackburn, Deaf Village North West is a place where people can come together, make friends, learn new skills and get the support they need. The story began back in 2006, when founder Debra Cartlidge set up the School of Sign Language. Over the years, that original idea grew into something much bigger, and Deaf Village North West officially became a Community Interest Company in 2021. Today, it's a thriving Deaf-led organisation with a simple belief: everyone deserves to feel included, valued and able to live life on their own terms.

Helping People Feel Supported and Independent

At the heart of Deaf Village North West is Our Deaf Hub, a friendly space offering practical help, communication support and wellbeing services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people. Whether someone needs a hand with everyday challenges, support at work or simply wants to meet others who share similar experiences, there's a team on hand to help.

The organisation also runs The White House, a specialist residential home for Deaf adults in Pleasington. Opened in 2022, it offers a welcoming environment where residents can build confidence, develop independent living skills and enjoy being part of a community that understands them.

Making Communication Easier for Everyone

Deaf Village North West doesn't just support individuals. It also helps businesses, schools and other organisations become more Deaf-aware and accessible. After all, something as simple as better communication can make a huge difference to someone's day.

Its services include:

• BSL interpreting and communication support
• Deaf awareness training for businesses and organisations
• Wellbeing and everyday practical support
• Supported living for Deaf adults
• Workplace support for Deaf employees
• BSL translation and accessible communication services
• Community activities, workshops and events
• Accessible meeting rooms and venue hire

A Local Organisation Making a Big Difference

The team's hard work hasn't gone unnoticed. In 2024, Deaf Village North West was named National Social Enterprise of the Year at the UK Start-Up Awards and received a Highly Commended award at the BIBAs.

But beyond the awards, it's the everyday work that really tells the story. Helping someone feel more confident, giving a Deaf person better access to services or showing a local business how to communicate more effectively. These are the things that matter.

For anyone looking for Deaf support in Blackburn, BSL interpreting in Lancashire or help making their workplace more inclusive, Deaf Village North West is a great place to start.