Day Service
Our independent day service in Leeds is called Openspace. We aim to create a welcoming creative learning environment that supports Deaf adults with learning disabilities. We like to think of it as social therapy where people come to meet with friends, have a good time and learn a thing or two. The things we learn break down into three categories which we call:
Communication
Sign Language is our approach to supporting communication and underpins everything we do.
The ability and opportunity to communicate is the key to reducing isolation and to feel valued.
We run communication sessions in groups and on 1-1 basis to help build vocabulary, develop conversation skills and explore emotions.
This is an opportunity to learn or improve BSL (British Sign Language) for deaf and non-verbal hearing service users. It is our way to enable people to express themselves, to socialise and build confidence within our safe supportive environment and in the community
Independence
Open Independence is our approach to developing independent living skills that can be used at home and in the community.
Activities around meal planning can include healthy eating discussions, transport, shopping, cooking, travel, cleaning, healthy living, personal hygiene and staying safe.
Activities tailored to match indvidual wants and needs
Learning
Our Open Learning programme is designed to build greater levels of global awareness, to look outside the immediate environment of home and the regular routine.
This may be helping someone to learn about current events, to gain a better understanding of the world around us using art, craft, discussion and being in the community to promote understanding.