Members of the Deaf community say a safe social space is vital to prevent them from feeling isolated.
Despite Deaf awareness being on the increase in society, many Deaf people feel they are still marginalised from social events.
The Observer met with members of The Watford Deaf Sports and Social Club as it celebrated 50 years of being in its purpose-built home, The Harebreaks Hub. They explained why having a place that is just for them is so important.
Read More
- Rickmansworth cat rescue centre 'desperate' for funds
- ‘Explosions’ as fire breaks out in neighbourhood
Chairperson Steve Ashwell said: “The club is a second home for most of the Deaf community.
“There are old members, there are new members and they all mix together.”
Mr Ashwell wants to see the group last for many years.
He said: “We need to continue this. We have been in the same building for 50 years. It’s important for me to see who is going to continue the club and enjoy it for the next 50 years.”
When the club originally moved into the building, in 1972, it was run by the Church of England, and was called The St Albans Diocesan Association for the Deaf.
Later, the Deaf community took over and in 1983 and the club changed its name to Watford Deaf Sports and Social Club.
The club’s home offers its members a safe space, as the treasurer Helen Austin explained.
She said: “Social events have varied over the years. The Deaf community could sign to each other without fear of people staring and thinking they are being rude for pointing.”
The club’s enduring success is one that members are proud of, but they are acutely aware that there is always a chance the group could stop running.
Samantha Voisin, who has been a member on and off over the years, said: “Many of the other Deaf clubs in the UK have closed.
“We need to keep going, we need to stay strong, and the Deaf clubs need to work together to do this.
“The Deaf feel isolated and it affects our mental health.”
Read More
- Rak-Su and Naughty Boy announced for Watford's Big Centenary Celebration
- Watford residents can win £500 of vouchers towards a jubilee lunch
Tyler Webster is a third-generation member. A picture of his grandfather, a well-loved member who passed away in November 2021, adorns the memorabilia wall.
“My grandfather, Michael Webster, was well known for setting up lots of Deaf events," he said.
"He did lots of work with Deaf children and supported them. He also worked with the British Deaf Association.”
Hilary Rundell has been a member for nearly 50 years, and she said the club offers her an environment to communicate with people.
She said: "I’m the only Deaf person in a hearing family, so it’s important that I can mix with other Deaf people, so I don’t feel so isolated.
“Otherwise, you can still feel isolated within your own family.”
Peter Daniell has been a member for 65 years and the group has given him “a sense of belonging”.
It was at the club that true love blossomed when he met his wife, and this October, they celebrate 60 years of marriage.
He said: “She stole my heart.”
Ms Austin wanted to remind the Deaf community that the club is there for people to join, and it also encourages people to join who are learning to sign.
She said: “Here, sign language is the norm.”
Have you got a story for us? You can contact us here.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.
To receive breaking news alerts or newsletters sign up here.
Check out our Watford crime and court Facebook page here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here