DeafKidz International is a UK-registered charity working to reduce the abuse and neglect of deaf children and ensure they can live safely, confidently and without fear. Deaf-founded and internationally active, the charity works with children, families, schools and communities to improve safeguarding, wellbeing and inclusion for deaf children worldwide.
``I am Safe. I am aware. I am Strong``
Current projects
DeafKidz Defenders
Its flagship programme, DeafKidz Defenders, uses play-based and EdTech approaches to help deaf children understand safety, boundaries, abuse, online risks and how to seek help. In Zambia, DeafKidz International has already supported 374 deaf children across 8 schools in Copperbelt Province, with strong results: 91% of children increased their knowledge of abuse and protective behaviours, and teachers reported greater confidence in teaching safeguarding and handling disclosures.
The next phase will deepen this work in Copperbelt Province and extend it to new schools and communities, including Western Province. It will support 400 deaf children, 80 teachers and 20 churches, reaching an estimated 1,480 people overall. The project will work holistically with vulnerable deaf children, teachers, caregivers, church leaders and wider community members to challenge stigma, improve deaf awareness and strengthen local safeguarding systems.
This approach recognises that deaf children are at greater risk of abuse, particularly where child protection information is not accessible and where communities lack understanding of deaf children’s rights, needs and vulnerabilities. By working through schools and churches, DeafKidz International aims to equip children to say no to abuse, help adults respond safely and build communities where deaf children are better protected, included and able to thrive.
The next phase will deepen this work in Copperbelt Province and extend it to new schools and communities, including Western Province. It will support 400 deaf children, 80 teachers and 20 churches, reaching an estimated 1,480 people overall. The project will work holistically with vulnerable deaf children, teachers, caregivers, church leaders and wider community members to challenge stigma, improve deaf awareness and strengthen local safeguarding systems.
This approach recognises that deaf children are at greater risk of abuse, particularly where child protection information is not accessible and where communities lack understanding of deaf children’s rights, needs and vulnerabilities. By working through schools and churches, DeafKidz International aims to equip children to say no to abuse, help adults respond safely and build communities where deaf children are better protected, included and able to thrive.
