Working across Plymouth, we offer a range of services and support to local businesses, groups, and employers. Our commitment extends to Deaf individuals and their families, whom we support through a variety of social events. Each month, we invite informative speakers to our Deaf Club, ensuring that members have access to valuable information and communication support. The Trustees and Volunteers are dedicated to making certain that everyone can access the support they need, empowering individuals to make informed choices, overcome barriers, and achieve their goals.
We are proud of our close collaborations with Plymouth Theatre Royal and Plymouth Arena. By providing experienced and qualified British Sign Language Interpreters, we enable the Deaf Community to enjoy popular and highly acclaimed performances and entertainment, fostering greater inclusion within the city’s cultural scene.
Our efforts to train departments within the local Hospital in Deaf Awareness have proven to be invaluable. Participants have expressed high praise for the sessions, with one commenting, “Fantastic course, has really raised my awareness and given me lots of ideas to take back to Cornwall…re: – barriers/ways to suggest improvements/things to research.”
We attend community groups to deliver talks on Deaf Awareness, sharing information about the work carried out by the Plymouth Deaf Association. We also provide signposting to help individuals and groups access relevant support and resources.
n May 2026, we will launch our first British Sign Language, Level 1 course, further enhancing opportunities for communication and understanding within the wider community.
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An appeal to BBC’s Children in Need awarded a grant of £5000 which was utilised in building a playground and
BDA conference held at Plymouth Guild Hall Members upon learning of the enormous amount of renovation work needed to bring
Blake Lodge, a mansion type house was purchased. It was then known as ‘Weston Lodge’. The name was changed to
The most terrible incident in Plymouth being at Portland Square underground shelter, where seventy-two people were killed as a result
Onset of World War Two. All the metal fences and gates surrounding the Portland Square park were removed to be
Mr William Archer was appointed as a missioner, taking over from Mr Blount. He made many alterations to improve the
The new Plymouth and District Deaf and Dumb Home and institute was opened formally at 3, Portland Square. Mr Blount,
The first Annual General Meeting of the three towns (Plymouth, Stonehouse and Devonport) District Deaf and Dumb Mission was held
A group of people from Plymouth formed a committee to set up a society for 200 deaf people in the
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Business Development Manager
I am profoundly Deaf and went to 2 Deaf schools including Mary Hare Grammar school. I have been working in Deaf services for 38 years. Started with RNID Care services then RNID Typetalk (Relay UK now). I have been self employed for last 15 years doing DAT and BSL Training, also working with other organisations like BDA, Sign Health, RNID.
Secretary
Hello, I am Gill Robinson. I have been working for Plymouth Deaf Association since May 2025 as the secretary/Coordinator. I am learning BSL and start a Lipspeaking course in January.
Fundraiser
My name is Gabrielle, I am a child of deaf adults (CODA). I graduated from London Metropolitan University back in 2010, having studied Journalism. I have a passion for the arts, in particular theatre and live music and I want to make sure these kinds of events can be enjoyed by anyone with an accessibility need. I have just recently completed an Audio Description accreditation and am working on becoming a captioner. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and our two daughters.
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Vice Chairperson
I am profoundly Deaf and went to 2 Deaf schools including Mary Hare Grammar school. I have been working in Deaf services for 38 years. Started with RNID Care services then RNID Typetalk (Relay UK now). I have been self employed for last 15 years doing DAT and BSL Training, also working with other organisations like BDA, Sign Health, RNID.
Chairperson
I have been involved with the Deaf Community for over 30 years as my daughter is Deaf. I have experience of supporting Deaf members with advocacy and other areas.
Treasurer
My name is Paul Northam, am the treasurer of the PDA. I have been a member of Plymouth Deaf Association in various capacities since moving to Plymouth, from Exeter, in 1969
Trustee
My name is Tom, I’m deaf myself since when I was 4. I grew up BSL user. I join PDA Trustee as I want to PDA achieve bright in future. It what I’m aim to do.
Trustee
My name Robert Rickard , l born in Plymouth 1962 and PDA Trustee , Bingo Caller
Trustee
I attended Burwood Park School 1967-1972. Member of Plymouth Deaf Association for nearly 50 years! I am a season ticket holder for Plymouth Argyle. I am often found keeping myself busy at my allotment or playing with my 4 grandchildren!
