Lauralee Carty
British Sign Language Communication Support Assistant
Background Information
I am hearing. I have worked in a S.E.N Secondary School for the past two and a half years, Supporting Deaf, Hard of Hearing and students with various disabilities, 1:1 and groups.
How did you come to choose to work alongside the Deaf/Deafblind?
Whilst working towards my BSL qualification, I attended a local signing group. We would meet once sometimes twice a week. On a few occasions I was asked if I would go shopping with some of the members, which I agreed to. I was able to assist / support Deaf members out in the community. This gave me an insight into the Deaf community. I decided once I had finished my course, this was something I would like to pursue, to give something back. I did get a little side tracked, I worked in a S.E.N Secondary school as a CSW/ LSA with Deaf Students, which was a fantastic opportunity and experience.
Hobbies and Interests
I enjoy reading, cooking, writing poetry, pyrography, drawing- anything creative.
What relevant qualifications do you possess?
BSL Level 1 and Level 2. I am currently studying BSL Level 3.
Preferred method(s) of communication
Spoken English, BSL
Training
Currently studying Level 3 BSL
What’s your favourite colour?
Green
Tell me an interesting story:
One evening my husband and I were having a conversation about things that we wish we had done, but never got around to doing, both of us said Sign Language. I then went on to the internet and found a BSL foundation course at my local college. I signed up for it, really enjoyed it, then went on to do levels one and two, now three.
My favourite thing is:
The bell on my keys
Cooking a nice meal and spending time with my family
Curling up on the sofa with a good book
I don't like:
Mushrooms, aubergines, cougettes
What frightens you?
Nothing frightens me.
Do you like Marmite?
I love marmite.
Do you keep ketchup in the fridge or cupboard?
Ketchup lives in the cupboard.