My Life: Yusuf Nuur, 15, Manchester

Yusuf Nuur
Tuesday, February 4, 2014

I'm deaf and use British Sign Language to communicate. I am a member of the National Deaf Children's Society's Young People's Advisory Board - a group of 17 deaf young people from across the UK.

Yusuf Nuur: "It is vital that deaf young people are supported to develop their confidence and independence"
Yusuf Nuur: "It is vital that deaf young people are supported to develop their confidence and independence"

The board was set up in 2011 for deaf young people to share their views and help shape the charity's services. I joined because it's the perfect opportunity to campaign. I used to think I couldn't change things but now I have the chance to influence decisions.

We are currently working on My Life My Health, a campaign that aims to improve deaf young people's experience of visiting their doctor. Health is such a big part of any young person's life, but for deaf young people, simply booking an appointment can be a challenge.

We created an online survey and organised focus groups, reaching 200 deaf young people. Some of their experiences were shocking, and one young person thought they would still go to the doctors with their mum when they are 55-years-old. The campaign made us realise how much deaf young people rely on their parents.

But as you get older, it is vital that deaf young people are supported to develop their confidence and independence. Together with the National Deaf Children's Society, the Young People's Advisory Board has created a range of resources, including top tips for doctors and parents of deaf young people.

I hope more deaf young people will be inspired by the campaign.

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