About NDS

Nottinghamshire Deaf Society (NDS) is a registered charity based on Forest Road West – supporting the lives of deaf, deafened and hard-of-hearing individuals across Nottingham, Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands.

Founded on inclusion, respect and empowerment 

NDS plays a vital role in enhancing the wellbeing of our community, helping to overcome the challenges that deaf and hard-of-hearing people may face in daily life.

The success of the charity today is built on the wonderful history and rich culture of the deaf community. Over the years we’ve earned an excellent reputation as a trusted resource, offering outreach and essential services to more than 400 deaf service users through our hub on Forest Road West.

Services for deaf and hard-of-hearing people

At NDS, we’re committed to providing access to a wide range of tailored services. These include welfare benefits advice, coffee morning groups, employment support, and advocacy services.

We have a team of highly skilled British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters, who offer invaluable support in times of crisis and medical emergencies. This service bridges the communication gap, ensuring deaf individuals receive the assistance they need in critical situations. In this way, NDS really is a bridge between a hearing and a deaf world, helping to foster mutual understanding and support.

Raising money to help people

As a charity we have to raise the majority of our annual budget through income generation, grants and voluntary donations. Without fundraising donations, the charity simply wouldn’t survive and we are grateful for the generosity of our supporters. You enable us to continue delivering services that make a meaningful difference to deaf people’s lives.

Every year we support more than 5,000 people

• We support deaf and hard-of-hearing people to access welfare services and benefits, ensuring they receive the financial assistance they’re entitled to.
• We provide BSL and deaf blind interpreting and a lipspeaking service, so our users can communicate effectively in all settings, whether personal or professional.
• We offer BSL and deaf awareness training to promote inclusion and understanding within the wider community.
• We offer lipreading classes to improve communication skills for those with varying levels of deafness.
• We provide a welcoming space for our 50+ social group, where the community can enjoy companionship, activities and support.
• We provide a welcoming space for deaf families, where children can enjoy activities in the playgroup.
• We support deaf and hard-of-hearing people with finding employment, helping to break down the barriers.