Charity Spotlight: Irish Deaf Society
Seeks to achieve and promote the Equality and Rights of Deaf people in Ireland.
We'd like to know about your charity. Tell us who you are and what inspired the creation of your charity.
The Irish Deaf Society (IDS) is the only national Deaf-led representative organisation for the Deaf community in Ireland. We exist to promote and protect the rights, equality and full participation of Deaf people in Irish society.
Our organisation was created from a simple but powerful belief: Deaf people have the right to live as equal citizens, to use Irish Sign Language (ISL) with pride, and to participate fully in every aspect of life, from education and employment to healthcare and public services.
For generations, Deaf people in Ireland faced barriers, exclusion and linguistic oppression. IDS was founded to change that. Today, as a recognised Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO) under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, we work nationally to empower the Deaf community, protect ISL recognition, and ensure Deaf people are represented at decision-making tables in policy, legislation and public life.
We are proud to lead the ISL Act Cross Community Group and to collaborate with national and international Deaf organisations. Everything we do is rooted in Deaf leadership, Deaf culture and the belief that access is a right, not a privilege.
What impact does your work have on the community?
The Irish Deaf Society has made a transformative impact on the lived experience of Deaf people across Ireland.
We led the successful campaign for the Irish Sign Language Act 2017 and continue to advocate for its full implementation, ensuring the lived experience of Deaf people shapes national policy. Through our National Council and community roadshows, we strengthen Deaf-led organisations, reduce isolation, and build stronger local communities.
Our Deaf-led research, policy submissions and consultations with State bodies influence decision-making at national and international level. We raise awareness through Deaf Awareness Training, improve access through our Information Office and personal advocacy service, and support hundreds of individuals to navigate healthcare, welfare and employment systems.
Each year, we deliver education and training to over a thousand learners and provide accredited ISL courses to the wider public. Through our ISL translation service and digital learning platform, we break down communication barriers and make public information accessible.
Together, this work empowers Deaf people to claim their rights, access opportunities, and participate fully in Irish society.
Would you like to share a success story that really represents what you do?
A powerful example of our work in action is the Deaf Careers Project Initiative, which is creating meaningful pathways to employment for Deaf people.
This innovative programme takes a guidance and advocacy-led approach to career development, supporting Deaf participants to better understand their rights, navigate recruitment systems, and advocate for the accommodations they are entitled to in the workplace. It works to challenge systemic barriers to employment by empowering Deaf people with knowledge, confidence and the tools needed to pursue career progression on fair and accessible terms.
At the same time, the initiative works directly with employers to increase Deaf awareness, challenge misconceptions and promote inclusive practices. By building understanding of Irish Sign Language and Deaf culture in professional settings, it helps remove communication barriers and foster more inclusive workplaces.
The impact is both immediate and long-term. Many participants experience a significant shift in confidence, ambition and self-belief, while employers gain a deeper appreciation of the talent and potential within the Deaf community. The initiative is not just supporting individuals into employment today, it is helping to reshape attitudes, influence workplace culture and create more sustainable, inclusive opportunities for the future.
How has being part of the Vhi Women's Mini Marathon supported your charity's mission?
The Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon represents community, strength and solidarity values that deeply align with our mission.
Being part of this event allows us to raise awareness beyond the Deaf community and bring visibility to Irish Sign Language and Deaf rights on a national platform. It helps spark conversations about accessibility, inclusion and equality.
Fundraising through the Mini Marathon directly supports our advocacy, community programmes and vital services. But just as importantly, it builds bridges between the Deaf and hearing communities.
Every woman who runs, walks or supports IDS in the Vhi Mini Marathon becomes part of a movement for equal access and Deaf rights!
Contact Info:
Telephone: 0873726760 | Email: larissa@irishdeafsociety.ie | Website: irishdeafsociety.ie