Ashlea Mews Care Home Breaks Barriers with British Sign Language Training

At our South Shields Care Home, a simple idea has had a life-changing impact. The team wanted to make sure every resident could feel heard, understood, and truly at home. That’s why four colleagues recently completed British Sign Language (BSL) training to better support residents who are both deaf and living with dementia. And the results have been nothing short of inspiring.

The six-week course, run by local experts ‘Sign It Here’, covered everything from fingerspelling and facial expressions to everyday care-related signs around personal care, food, and wellbeing. But what made it really special was the personal touch - a bespoke section on joinery, created especially for resident James Ward.

James, who is deaf and lives with dementia, often believes he’s still working as a joiner. By learning the signs connected to his former trade, the care team can now communicate with James on subjects that matter to him and connect with him in a way that brings comfort, familiarity, and smiles.

Before the training, communication barriers sometimes left James distressed and frustrated. Now, things are very different. “Being able to sign with James has opened up a whole new world for him – and for us,” said Debby Caudwell, Care Assistant, who took part in the course. “He’s calmer, happier, and no longer needs regular doses of Lorazepam. It’s made such a difference.”

James’s social worker, Sharon Wildgoose, echoed the sentiment, describing Ashlea Mews as a care home she would “highly recommend.”

Another resident, Nok, who is also deaf and lives with dementia, was quick to notice the team’s new skills. “You’ve done amazing.” She signed.

Home Manager, Vicki Yeoman, couldn’t be prouder of her team. “This has made a massive difference – not just for our residents, but for the whole atmosphere in the home,” she said. “Our colleagues embraced the training with real heart and enthusiasm. It’s created stronger bonds, reduced distress, and brought genuine joy to our daily interactions.”

The initiative has also touched families. James’s partner, May, has seen how improved communication has transformed his quality of life. “It’s changed both their lives,” Vicki shared.

Among those who really shone during the course were Vicki Scott, Debby Caudwell, and Racheal Gibson, whose passion for learning BSL has inspired others. Now, there’s a growing appetite across the team to continue training and deepen their skills.

The home is planning to roll out more BSL training to all colleagues at the home. “There’s a real buzz and pride around what we’ve achieved – and many more want to be part of it,” said Vicki.

Are you looking for a friendly, welcoming care home for your loved one? Rated ‘Good’ by CQC, Ashlea Mews Care Home offers residential care, residential dementia care and short-term respite care in the South Shields region. To find out more, hit the button below or call the team on 0191 455 9051 today!