Deaf awareness week is highlighted at parliament

Charity there to help clients make sense of the benefits system

Fulton MacGregor sponsored a parliamentary reception at Holyrood for Action on Hearing Loss Scotland as part of the recent deaf awareness week.

The Coatbridge & Chryston MSP is now encouraging deaf constituents to make use of the charity’s welfare rights advocacy service for queries about benefits decisions.

Its specialist service can provide people who are deaf or have hearing loss, including British Sign Language users, with information, advice and formal representation to challenge decisions.

Mr MacGregor said: “In just six months, the welfare rights officer has enabled three clients in North Lanarkshire, and another 71 clients in the nine local authority areas she serves, to obtain income of more than £53,557 they are entitled to.

“Action on Hearing Loss Scotland’s social security advocacy service provides valuable advice and reassurance for those who are concerned or confused about the current welfare system.

“I’d encourage people in Coatbridge & Chryston who are deaf or have hearing loss to contact the service to be better informed about support they may be entitled to.”

The reception at Holyrood was attended by a number of parlimentarians, including social