A local lip-reading group supporting people with hearing loss has received national recognition at the National Adult Learning Awards 2025, held at the Scottish Parliament on 29 January.
The group, delivered through Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Lifelong Learning Service, was recognised for the positive difference it makes to learners’ confidence, communication skills and day-to-day wellbeing.
The classes were developed following the long-running success of the council’s British Sign Language (BSL) classes – operating locally for almost 20 years. While BSL meets the needs of many learners, a growing number of people identified the need for additional support to help them communicate more easily with friends, family and others in everyday situations.
The lip-reading group focusses not only on learning how to read lips, but also on understanding the theory behind communication and developing different approaches for use in busy or challenging environments. Learners are supported to build confidence, reduce isolation and feel more comfortable taking part in conversations at home, at work and in their communities.
One learner shared:
“The classes have been wonderful. We don’t just learn to lip-read – we learn about strategies to use in different situations to make it easier to interpret what others are saying and help to have conversations. It has definitely made me feel more confident “
Many learners progress to the group after completing an introductory BSL course, finding that the two forms of communication complement each other and provide greater flexibility in everyday life.
Councillor Tracey Little, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said:
“This recognition highlights the real impact that community learning can have on people’s lives. Supporting people to stay connected, confident and involved is at the heart of lifelong learning, and this group is a great example of that.”“The impact is seen in everyday situations – from socialising with others to feeling more confident communicating in shops, at work or in the community.”
Councillor George Jamieson, Vice-Chair, added:
“As more people experience hearing difficulties, it’s important that learning opportunities are inclusive and responsive to local needs. This award recognises the dedication of both the learners and the tutors involved.”
The group continues to welcome new learners and remains a valued part of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Lifelong Learning Service.
