A charity that began life as Cheshire Deaf Society is celebrating its 50th anniversary this April.
DSN (Deaf & Sensory Network) now supports thousands of people across Cheshire and North East Wales, delivering services from Chester, Northwich and Macclesfield, alongside extensive outreach work across local communities.
The organisation began its 50th anniversary with a 70s-themed celebration event, recognising the staff and volunteers who have helped shape its journey with fun, games and nostalgic quizzes.
Employing over 80 staff, the organisation has grown into a vital part of the region’s support network – providing everything from social care support, assistive technology to training, community groups and supported living.
Its supported living services in Northwich, which are celebrating 35 years this year, provide specialist care for people who are deaf and/or deafblind, many with complex needs – supporting them to live independently and with dignity.
DSN has long-standing partnerships with local authorities, including Cheshire West and Chester Council and Cheshire East Council, Wrexham Borough Council and Flintshire County Council, delivering essential services that help people access healthcare, housing and wider support.
The organisation has also been involved in research with the University of Manchester into the links between sensory loss and dementia – an area of increasing importance as the population ages.
Beyond care and support, DSN plays a key role in education and awareness, delivering BSL courses from beginner to interpreter level, and providing deaf awareness training to organisations including Manchester Airport, Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.
CEO Gill Reeder, who has been with the organisation since its inception in 1976, said:
“I’m so proud to be reaching this milestone alongside our amazing team. We’ve grown and evolved over the years, but our purpose has always remained the same – to support people to live independently and feel fully connected to the world around them. This year is about celebrating everything that has gone before and looking ahead to what the future looks like for DSN.”
DSN Chairman Dave Fardo added:
“This is a team that genuinely cares. The work they do – often behind the scenes – has a profound impact on people’s lives and it’s been my privilege to see it evolve during my tenure. DSN is an organisation that never sits still in the pursuit of empowering people with sensory loss and that is something to be incredibly proud of. Here’s to the next 50.”
