The Scottish Cochlear Implant Programme hosted an Education transitions Day event at the Glasgow University Student Union, drawing support from high-profile figures, including Love Island and Strictly Come Dancing star, Tasha Ghouri.
The event welcomed more than 60 young people with cochlear implants from across Scotland, as well as their families, teachers and support teams. The event provided information and support as the young people transition from school to further education or employment, with exhibitors from Social Security Scotland; Glasgow University; British Association of Teachers of the Deaf (BATOD); Deaf Action; National Deaf Children’s Foundation; cochlear implant manufacturers; as well as the team from the Scottish Cochlear Implant Programme.
Tasha Ghouri, who proudly wears a cochlear implant, shared her personal journey and described her implant as her ‘superpower’.
Kara Gillespie, BAFTA Young Presenter and BBC Social Creator, led a hands-on session on creating short-form video content to raise awareness about cochlear implants on social media. Guests also had the opportunity to join a football skills session with Deaf Olympian William Palmer, and participate in a vibrant drumming workshop led by Drum 4 Ur Life, an Ayrshire-based charity, which fosters positive mental health and wellbeing through the power of music and community.
Jane Gallacher, Head of Service at the Scottish Cochlear Implant Programme, said: “As the national service supporting both adults and children, we are proud to bring together young adults with cochlear implants from across Scotland, along with their families, as they navigate the important transition from school to further education and employment. It’s about building connections, sharing experiences and ensuring everyone feels supported on their journey ahead.”
Tasha Ghouri explained: “Today was a truly wholesome and emotional day, listening to the powerful stories of young adults on their journeys with cochlear implants.
“I had the chance to share my own experience through childhood and leave a little message of encouragement at the end. Days like this truly matter to be able to embrace our disability in a safe, supportive space.”
Kara Gillespie added: “This event is so important because it will inspire young people, help them realise they’re not alone and give them the chance to connect with other young deaf people in the community.” The Scottish Cochlear Implant Programme, established in 1988 at University Hospital Crosshouse, is commissioned by the National Services Division of NHS National Services Scotland. It provides a national cochlear implant service for profoundly deaf adults and children across Scotland.