Meet Kelly Ann

Kelly Ann has a part-time job as a personal assistant for people with deaf/blind/learning difficulties. She was born deaf and lives with her dog Megan. During the early days of lockdown she created sign language YouTube videos with her sister Natasha. “They were received incredibly well. I have had many messages of support from kind people thanking us for teaching them a new language during lockdown,” she says.

The challenges deaf people faced throughout the pandemic were immense with everyone wearing face masks. There was little opportunity to lip read. “It was frustrating,” says Kelly Ann. “It’s important to be aware of the deaf community, be patient and even learn sign language to communicate.”

Kelly Ann is very happy with her home: “When I first moved in I was nervous and anxious, but I feel safe living here and the people here are friendly and supportive. It’s quiet and Megan my dog is very settled. I have the correct equipment such as flashing lights when someone is at the door as well as a camera inside the flat so I can see who’s at the door.”

Coping with lockdown wasn’t easy. “I had anxiety which made it harder,” says Kelly Ann. “I had my ups and downs like everyone else. I kept myself busy with photography and Lego, as well as enjoying walks with Megan.”