07 Aug James’ fundraising recognised by visit from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

Representatives from the charity, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, visited our offices to say thank you for money raised by our engineer, James Graves.

James hiked the Three Peaks in May of this year to raise almost £600 for the charity which trains dogs to alert their deaf partners to sounds they would otherwise miss.

Community Fundraising Manager for the South East, Rachel Annetts, came to see us to explain what goes into raising and training a hearing dog, as well as the costs involved, which currently stand at around £40,000.

With a waiting time of up to three years for a hearing dog, she said how valuable donations like James’ are.

Rachel was accompanied by Amelia whose life has been transformed since having hearing dog, Scamp.

She was previously introverted, nervous and not really engaging with life but Scamp has given her the confidence to complete her college studies and, as she said, “live life to the full”.

Contacta’s office manager, Lisa Thomas, felt the visit was inspirational.

“We’re so grateful to Rachel and Amelia for coming in.  They made the work that the charity does real to us on a very personal level.”

Find out more about Hearing Dogs for Deaf People on their website https://www.hearingdogs.org.uk/