RNID relies on partnerships to increase the critical mass of research and development, create greater focus and to exchange technology and ideas.

Our partners include governments, businesses, academia, the media, deaf and hard of hearing people and other voluntary sector organisations.

Business partners

RNID’s technology team provides a range of services for businesses, ranging from free advice on product and service accessibility to detailed user trials through our deaf and hard of hearing volunteer network. We can help businesses identify untapped markets for products and services through a detailed knowledge of the user requirements of the 9 million deaf and hard of hearing consumers in the UK. By acting as an honest broker, we can also facilitate technology transfer and identify potential academic and business partners.

Our recent partners include Vodaphone, T-mobile, BBC, Carphone Warehouse, Department of Trade and Industry and a wide range of manufacturers.

European projects

When leading private sector and academic researchers from across the European Union come together it creates a environment in which ideas can successfully be developed. It also helps to attract significant public funding. RNID is a partner in several European consortium research projects funded by the European Union where strong project management skills, a broad technical knowledge and close association with end users is key. Our recent projects include Synface, Hearcom and eSign.

People

Deaf and head of hearing people are at the centre of our work. They are best placed to explain their needs and requirements yet, surprisingly, are often overlooked as the consumers of products and services. We actively recruit deaf and hard of hearing volunteers to help with our work.

Further information

Find out more about working in partnership with RNID on research and technology projects, and how we can help you.