Everyone deserves to feel understood, included and part of something. But for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing, everyday situations that others might take for granted can sometimes come with unexpected challenges.

That's where Deaf Village North West CIC comes in.

Based in the heart of Pleasington, Blackburn, this award-winning, Deaf-led organisation helps break down communication barriers, bring people together, and make everyday life a little easier.

And what makes them so special? It's not just the services they offer, it's the genuine sense of community they've created.

It All Started with a Simple Idea

Every business has a story, and Deaf Village North West's goes back to 2006, when founder Debra Cartlidge established the School of Sign Language.

What began with a passion for improving communication grew into something much bigger. In 2021, Deaf Village North West officially became a Community Interest Company, giving even more people access to the support and opportunities they deserve.

Today, the organisation is based at the historic Moon Mill in Pleasington, where they've created a welcoming space for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people to meet, socialise, learn new skills and access support.

It's a place where people can feel comfortable being themselves, surrounded by others who understand their experiences.

And sometimes, that's exactly what someone needs.

Helping People Live Life Their Way

One of the lovely things about Deaf Village North West is that their support isn't a one-size-fits-all approach.

Through Our Deaf Hub, they help people with all sorts of everyday challenges, from communication and wellbeing to workplace support and simply having somewhere to go for a friendly conversation.

For some, it might be about getting practical advice. For others, it could mean building confidence, meeting new people or finding a community they feel connected to.

They also run The White House, a specialist residential home for Deaf adults in Pleasington, which opened in 2022.

The White House provides a supportive place to live, where residents can develop their independence, learn everyday skills and enjoy life in an environment where their communication needs are understood.

Because independence looks different for everyone, having the right support can make all the difference.

Making Blackburn a More Inclusive Place

Deaf Village North West doesn't just work with Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. They're also helping local businesses, schools and organisations become more accessible.

Think about something as simple as booking an appointment, attending a meeting or speaking to someone in a shop. Communication is such a huge part of everyday life, yet it's easy to overlook how difficult these situations can become when the right support isn't available.

That's why the team offers a range of services, including British Sign Language (BSL) interpreting, Deaf awareness training, BSL translation, workplace support and accessible communication services.

They also organise community activities, workshops and events that give people opportunities to learn, connect and enjoy themselves.

It's all about encouraging better understanding and making sure more people feel included, whether that's at work, in education or out in the community.

Small Moments, Big Differences

The work Deaf Village North West does is having an impact.

In 2024, they were named National Social Enterprise of the Year at the UK Start-Up Awards and received a Highly Commended award at the BIBAs.

Both are fantastic achievements and well-deserved recognition for everything the team has built.

But beyond the awards, it's the smaller, everyday moments that really show what this organisation is about.

Someone feeling confident enough to try something new. A business learning how to communicate more effectively. A person finding somewhere they finally feel they belong.

These might seem like little things, but to the people experiencing them, they can mean the world.

A Big Welcome to Deaf Village North West CIC!

It's wonderful to welcome Deaf Village North West CIC to thebestofblackburn.

They're a brilliant example of how a local organisation can have such a positive impact on the people around them, not just by providing services, but by creating connections, building confidence and helping people feel valued.

From Deaf support and BSL interpreting to supported living and community activities, there's so much to discover about the work they do.

And if there's one thing Deaf Village North West shows, it's that a little more understanding can go a very long way.