King’s Walk is proud to announce its partnership with the Gloucestershire Deaf Association (GDA) to promote deaf awareness and inclusivity in the community. 

As part of the partnership, Gloucestershire Deaf Association will be providing comprehensive deaf awareness training for King’s Walk staff members across the brand’s portfolio: Eastgate Shopping Centre, King’s Walk, King’s Square and St Oswalds. Each workshop is meticulously designed for maximum effectiveness based on the charity’s extensive experience working with businesses and groups.

The charity will also be situated in King’s Walk, offering valuable insights into their mission and services.

King’s Walk are committed to equipping their front-facing staff with the necessary tools and knowledge through deaf awareness training. This initiative addresses a gap that has been historically prevalent, not only within our industry but nationally across retail.

According to statistics*, approximately 12 million adults in the UK are deaf or have hearing loss, highlighting the significance of fostering deaf awareness. An estimated 100,000 individuals use British Sign Language (BSL). 

Despite these numbers, a recent study by RNID** revealed alarming findings. A staggering 59% of people admitted to feeling unconfident in communicating with those who are deaf or have hearing loss. This number rises to 84% when it comes to British Sign Language users, indicating a critical need for education and awareness.

Deafness is a hidden disability, and misconceptions can lead to significant barriers. The King’s Walk partnership with GDA is not only about training staff; it’s about encouraging everyone to play their part in creating a more deaf-aware society.

The joint effort between King’s Walk and the Gloucestershire Deaf Association aims to spark conversations, break down stereotypes and promote inclusivity. By championing deaf awareness, King’s Walk is setting an example for the industry and the community at large.