Kerry Deaf Resource Centre Update 29.07.13

ACCESS TO SOUTHDOC SERVICE.
From time to time, we receive queries from clients on how to access SouthDoc services. SouthDoc provides access to family doctor services for urgent medical needs outside of normal hours – evenings, nights, weekends and bank holidays. SouthDoc also provides a call out service to those unable to travel.

Due to the way their system operates, appointments are made via a telephone number which is not accessible to Deaf and many hard of hearing patients. We have been informed by SouthDoc’s Operations Manager that they are working hard to remedy this situation. They are currently developing a new system which will enable people seamlessly access their service. They hope to have an update on their progress from late September onwards. As soon as we have this information, we will let you know.

On a positive note, information on SouthDoc locations and operating hours are now available at http://www.southdoc.ie/index.cfm and they can also  be contacted by email at [email protected]

In the meantime, do not forget to register your mobile details with www.112.ie who in turn will be able to contact emergency services on your behalf.

ISL RECOGNITION CAMPAIGN IN CO.KERRY.
The Irish Deaf Society’s (IDS) has been campaigning for official recognition of Irish Sign Language (ISL) for a number of years. As part of this initiative, Geraldine Broderick, John Patrick Doherty and our service have written to all Kerry based TD’s , Town & County Councillors.

We are pleased to say that Norma Foley was the first Councillor followed by Jim Finnucane to contact us to say they have placed a motion with Tralee Town Council & Kerry County Council in support of ISL.

Tralee Town Council are due to meet the first Monday of September and Kerry County Council on the third Monday. Fingers crossed the motion to support the official recognition of ISL will be passed and Tralee & Co. Kerry will join the growing lists of Councils that support this campaign.

SUPPORTS FOR DEAF STUDENTS FOR UPCOMING ACADEMIC YEAR.
It’s that time of year again where we come to the end of the academic year and students can switch off from studying. However, this is an important time for Deaf and hard of hearing students to check what educational supports will be available to them for the upcoming academic year. This is especially critical for students entering 3rd level for the first time.

In order to avail of supports, students will need to meet with their  Disability / Access Officer and/or the lecturers and tutors.

AHEAD lists a range of different supports that can assist a Deaf or hard of hearing student to participate in lectures and tutorials. Not all colleges can provide all the supports mentioned. However, if one or a combination of the supports listed will be useful to you, you should request them from your college.

To see the lists of supports, go to
http://www.ahead.ie/inclusiveeducation_supportsinthirdlevel_02_supports and scroll down  to DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING STUDENTS.

REMINDER OF ANNUAL LEAVE IN AUGUST.
Our service will closed for annual leave for the month of August. We will close on Wednesday the 31st of July at 5pm and will re-open on Monday the 2nd of September at 10am. We would like to thank our staff, Board members, volunteers and supporters for their hard work and commitment to our service to date. We hope you enjoy your time off and we look forward to working with you all again in September.

INTERPRETER FOR MEDICAL/LEGAL EMERGENCIES DURING ANNUAL LEAVE.
If you require a sign language interpreter for medical or legal emergencies during August, you can contact the Sign Language Interpreting Service emergency number at 087 672 5179


KDRC provides services to Deaf and hard of hearing at county level and contributes to national issues of equality, access and rights.

Kerry Deaf Resource Centre (KDRC)
4 Gas Tce, Tralee, Co. Kerry, IRELAND

Mobile (text) 087 633 4687
E-mail: [email protected]
Fax: 066 712 0386
Tel: 066 712 0399

www.kerrydeaf.com
www.facebook.com/kerrydeaf
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