Deafblind trainee doctor speaks up
Deafblind UK’s third virtual conference on 5 October will hear from Google’s head of accessibility and disability inclusion, EMEA, Christopher Patnoe.
The UK’s first deafblind medical student, Alexandra Adams will also address delegates. The free, online event will explore how deafblindness affects all areas of life.
Chief executive Nikki Morris, pictured, said: “We know that the effects of deafblindness are far reaching, beyond the person directly affected. At this year’s conference we will explore how deafblindness affects the people around us. We’ll look at how relationships, education and employment are impacted and explore the systems that are in place to support these areas.
“Having a day to explore the impact of deafblindness, not only on the individual but beyond, is vitally important for everyone we work with.”
Alexandra will share her personal experiences of discrimination and stereotyping and how she dispels the misconceptions around being a deaf and blind healthcare professional. Christopher leads Google’s work around the accessibility of product, people, policy and partnerships across EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa). He will talk about building inclusive, innovative products.
Other speakers include Dr Annmaree Watharow, lived experience research fellow at the University of Sydney and Megan Taylor, a social media star talking about the vital role of assistance dogs.
The conference will also include panel discussions on life as a deafblind parent, and how local authorities engage with people living with deafblindness.
The event is free to join and is available to book online at: www.deafblind.org.uk/conference.