Tom's Story

Case Study: Young person with learning disability

Background: Tom, a young Deaf individual with a learning disability, had a history of drug misuse which led to periods of incarceration and probation service involvement. He struggled with limited communication skills and had difficulty accessing support.

Support provided: Action Deafness provided Tom with specialist support to help him turn his life around. Through rehabilitation programmes provided by the local authority’s drug and alcohol recovery service, we provided 1:1 communication support that facilitated his understanding and learning, empowering him to engage actively in the recovery process.

Impact: Tom’s experience with our support services transformed his life. He attended rehabilitation programmes aimed at addressing his past challenges and developing new skills for a healthier lifestyle. Alongside this support, he started attending local Deaf clubs, where he could connect with peers, share experiences, and participate in social activities.

The combination of practical support and community engagement has sparked a newfound sense of purpose and direction in Tom’s life; significantly reducing his risk of reoffending and leading to sustained improvements in his wellbeing and independence.