What do you do for RNID?

I support the team who work in research and development by bringing in deaf and hard of hearing users to feedback and test our projects, any prototypes and products we work on.  I edit and send out our newsletter.

I also support colleagues with notation for our development work on virtual 3D humans.  We are working on new pilot trials via broadband with our video relay service to a number of BSL users’ homes and work places in the South East.  I am also going to be working on a new big project called Hearcom, along with Hearwear, which involves well-known designers designing fashionable hearing aids.

Describe a typical working day.

Browse emails and try to put them in organised folders! Check my unfinished work and goals. Meet with the team for an update on projects and plans. Write to volunteers to confirm dates of evaluations or meet them to introduce myself and our work and explain the type of feedback we need. Summarise the feedback results and discuss them with colleagues.

What do you enjoy most about working for RNID?

I feel comfortable at the office, as there is such a good sense of deaf awareness!  I am able to sign with a mix of people, from only a few metres away to every floor in the office!  I am also interested in the variety of people who come and visit RNID!  I am always learning new skills, especially from other people who work at RNID and get continuous training.

What qualifications or experience help to get a job like yours?

I qualified in community work at university. I then worked with the deaf community for a local council and in the voluntary sector.  You need to have a wide and open understanding of the diversity of people’s views.

Any advice for people if they want a similar job?

Be broadminded and think what skills you need to help you get the job. My past roles were community-based, so my skills helped me get my current job working with in technology and linking to the deaf community for evaluation work. RNID always likes deaf or hard of hearing people to apply, so try different posts and if you think your skills match, give us a go!  I applied twice and was lucky on my second time.  Someone beat me once, but we have many different departments, so keep looking – just like me!

Anything else you would like to say?

It is very important to work closely with your hearing colleagues, as we can all share skills and learn from each other.  You need to ensure that any deaf colleagues in your team are fully integrated!