The Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People has existed since 1866. Throughout its long history, the single objective has been to respond to the expressed needs and aspirations of Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, Blind and partially sighted people. This has been achieved by the active participation of community members, involved at every level of the Society.
The success of The Society is without doubt due to the active pursuit of this policy. However, we recognise the value of the large number of people who have given and continue to give their time and talents in a voluntary capacity, and this valuable input, has been a significant factor in the progress of the Society.
There are few, if any, other voluntary societies which provide services for Deaf, Blind and DeafBlind people. The reputation of The Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People is virtually without equal in this regard, and the benefit of our advice, opinion and experience is sought by people throughout the UK. The Society recognises that its long partnership since the 1950s with Leeds City Council Social Services has also been a significant factor in this success.
The Society continually strives to improve access for the Deaf, Blind and DeafBlind communities of Leeds. This is achieved by listening to our members and service users and working with them to develop. By consultation and cooperation, we shall ensure that we enable each person to have the opportunity of choice, leading to achieving their personal potential and independent living.
Our mission
- Having our community at the centre of everything we do.
- Providing a welcoming, sustainable and safe place where everyone feels at home and is treated as an equal.
- Enabling individuals, families and friends to connect and access support, resources and services, appropriate to their needs.
- Helping other organisations to develop their services to better meet the needs of Deaf, Blind and Deafblind People.
- Celebrating successes and respecting all.
Meet The Team
Zoe Major
Building, Facilities, Development & Contracts Manager
As a student on placement in 1988 I was absolutely bowled over by the scope of service the Society provided within Deaf and Blind communities in Leeds. Having been completely inspired and in awe of all the work done, I continued with voluntary work until I took my first full time job as a Social Welfare Officer in 1989.
Over the years, I have taken the opportunities to work in many roles in all areas of sensory loss. I want to make a real difference and bring positive change for the children, adults and families we support. I am passionate that people have choice and control over their lives, and that the individuals we support and their families are at the forefront of all that we do. I am incredibly lucky to be surrounded by people who work really hard and I continue to be amazed by the depth of their commitment and skills.
Outside of work I love to spend time with my family and friends. I am obsessed about everything connected with VW campervans. The sense of freedom that a VW evokes – playfulness, the great outdoors, living closer to nature, holidays with my adorable dog Rolfe, life out on a limb, I could go on….
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Alison Miller
HR & Finance Manager
I have worked for the Society since 1994, when I started as Admin Assistant to Martin Dodgson who was then the Director. My role has changed many times over the years, since 2011 I have been the HR & Finance Manager.
I have progressive severe hearing loss which runs in my family. I have Level 2 BSL but I would benefit from more practice.
When I’m not working I love to spend time in my garden, in the kitchen cooking or with my family and friends.
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Bookings Co-ordinator
Tracey Adams
Cleaning Assistant – Bar/Cafe Supervisor
I have worked for the Society for five years as Cleaning Assistant and Bar/Café Supervisor. I have also held the title of Facilities Coordinator. In addition to my paid roles, I have been volunteering for many years and am always happy to give up my time to support the Society with a variety of projects. I’m sure you will be able to work this out from the photograph, but my passions include tending to my allotment, which I am proud of!
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Robbie Grieve
British Sign Language Interpreter
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Lauren Osbourne-Duffy
British Sign Language Interpreter
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Connie Doyle
Trainee British Sign Language Interpreter
My name is Connie, I am a recently graduated trainee sign language interpreter. I am excited to be part of this great and supportive team at the start of my interpreting journey! Being hard of hearing and coming from a hard of hearing family, I have lived experience of the importance of accessibility and inclusion. Learning BSL and getting involved with deaf communities is central to the work I do.
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The Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People
Our charity number is: 227169
The Centre
St Mary’s Street
Leeds
LS9 7DP
0113 2438328
Monday 09:00 – 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 – 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 – 17:00
Thursday 09:00 – 17:00
Friday 09:00 – 16:30
