A Journey of Adaptation and Support

In the realm of workplace inclusivity, stories like Kaye Moors' highlight the importance of adaptive solutions and community support.

Managing Director of DRUM Studios, Kaye, who is determined to learn British Sign Language (BSL) despite the loss of use of one arm, faced several challenges in her journey. With the right support from Includability and its network of experts, Kaye was able to find a solution in the form of Includability Ambassador and deaf advocate, Emm Sharpe, Founder of Study Sharpe.

A New Approach to Learning BSL

Kaye's quest to learn BSL began with several rejections from traditional BSL teachers who were unprepared to adapt their teaching methods for one-handed use. This setback, however, did not deter her. She reached out to Emm Sharpe, known for her innovative approach and understanding of disability culture. Emm embraced the challenge and designed a 10-week course specifically adapted for Kaye's needs.

The adapted BSL course has been progressing well, thanks to Emm's willingness to understand Kaye's abilities and her brain's unique workings. Emm's dedication involved creating specialised recordings and work materials, as well as a lot of trial and error to find the best teaching methods.

Kaye praised Emm, stating, "She gave me plenty of time to learn, and accommodated my needs really well."

Kaye is looking forward to starting her second unit with Emm in September.

Emm was so excited and touched that Kaye has taken up the challenge of learning BSL one handed with her, Emm said:

“Kaye has been learning the first unit of the Signature accredited Level 1 award in BSL with us at Study Sharpe and will continue her studies with us in early autumn. The last few weeks have been an amazing and fun experience seeing how quickly Kaye is learning and embracing the grammatical features of this beautiful language and understanding the importance of the nuances of the language in doing so. We have enjoyed the challenges of adapting the signs for Kaye and finding different ways to enable her to fingerspell.

“She arrives to class ready and eager to learn and always with a ‘can do’, proactive attitude and smile. We have built an excellent rapport together and with her partner. We have had many interesting and insightful conversations about Deaf Culture, Deaf Awareness, accessibility and inclusion for Deaf BSL users within the community and the workplace. It has been an absolute pleasure to teach her, and I look forward to working with her again shortly.”

Engaging with the Includability Community

Kaye's engagement with the Includability community didn't stop with Emm Sharpe, she also connected with Alex Manners, another Includability Ambassador, through the Includability Employer Support Group (ESG). Kaye was impressed by Alex's talk at the Autism Show in June and invited him to speak at DRUM Studios, where she works. DRUM Studios hosts disability talks for staff each quarter and weekly sessions during Disability Pride Month.

Alex delivered a comprehensive talk at DRUM, focusing on his personal experience with autism, digital accessibility from an autistic perspective, and a Q&A session. Kaye found Alex to be passionate and informative, adding great value and insights to their Disability Pride Month events.

On sharing his story with the DRUM team, Alex said, “I met Kaye, from Drum via Includability. She then invited me to present a talk to some of her team about my experiences of digital accessibility as an autistic individual. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing my story whilst educating and inspiring her team.”

Expanding Support through Volunteering

In addition to engaging with Includability Ambassadors, DRUM Studios is exploring opportunities through Matchable Volunteering, utilising their two free matches provided via their Includability membership as an Includability Committed Employer. They aim to complete their volunteering initiatives by August, further extending their commitment to community engagement and support.

DRUM Studios is also supporting Land Aid as their charity partner for the quarter, highlighting their dedication to making a positive impact through charitable initiatives.

About DRUM Studios

DRUM Studios are a multi-disciplined agency web-development, who prides itself on its long-term partnerships with clients. They create accessible content that grows your customer engagement and drives your business growth.

With so many digital tools at their disposal and decades of experience, DRUM can concentrate on bringing your story to life in the most accessible and effective way possible. Regardless of whether you require a digital or brand strategy, website design and development, app development, video production or motion graphics, you are in safe hands.

About Study Sharpe

Study Sharpe offers a range of tailored Deaf Awareness training courses and support services which are designed to help employees understand how to communicate effectively with Deaf people. Founded by Emm Sharpe, their core focus is on helping businesses create an inclusive community internally and externally.

They also provide consultancy services for organisations who need basic advice in developing their own policies and procedures specifically to Deaf equality issues.

Includability Ambassador - Alex Manners

Alex Manners
was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of Autism, at a young age. He is a Neurodiversity & Autism Speaker, Asperger’s champion, presenter and author.

He presents talks all about “My Life Living with Asperger’s” to lots of different companies, law firms, universities, NHS Trusts and charities, and has also written a book called “That’s Not Right! My Life Living with Asperger’s”.

How Includability Supports Businesses

Kaye Moors' journey with Includability showcases how businesses can benefit from identifying areas of growth and connecting with a community of experts. Includability's mission is to support companies in enhancing their talent management, acquisition, and retention strategies while emphasising diversity, inclusion, sustainability, and mental health.

By leveraging Includability's network, businesses can access tailored support, from specialised training and workshops to networking events and employer support groups. This comprehensive approach not only fosters a more inclusive workplace but also aligns corporate values with the expectations of today's talent pool.

Join us at Includability and transform your workplace culture. Discover how our community of partner experts can help you build a more diverse, inclusive, and mentally healthy environment. Contact us today to learn more about our services and start your journey towards a more inclusive future.

https://www.weareincludability.co.uk/membership/signup

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