A NEWPORT foster mother who learned sign language when she started caring for a deaf child is being recognised for her dedication.
Lesley Bellew, 40, who has been fostering for six years, took on the challenge at the beginning of the year when she started caring for the four-year-old.
She has now been shortlisted for a Learner of the Year award by Signature, the UK’s leading provider of accredited qualifications in sign language.
Ms Bellew started to learn sign language at the CHIIC Sign Language Centre, Newport.
She passed her level one qualification in British Sign Language with flying colours and is now enrolled onto level two.
She has also helped teach her family the basics of signing and is now working with the CHIIC centre and Newport council to establish a group where families affected by deafness can meet for learning sessions and to socialise.
She said: "I was really surprised when I found out but I am very pleased about it."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article