Without the support of experienced and well trained professionals it can be very hard for deaf children to make the most of their talents.

The Republic of Gambia is the smallest country on the African mainland and unlike the UK and other developed countries which have used sophisticated support and teaching techniques for many years, it has very limited facilities for deaf children.

There has also been a complete lack of routine testing of babies and young children for deafness so, although some deaf children have been identified, it is probable that many other deaf children have not been diagnosed or offered help.  Some of these will be kept at home and considered uneducable.

There is just one established non-residential school for the deaf situated in Serrekunda, at the western end of the country.  Although most staff are qualified teachers, there are no qualified teachers of the deaf in The Gambia.

The Gambian Deaf Children Support Project  (GDCSP) was founded by professional practitioners from the UK and is working to help develop improved arrangements and facilities to support Deaf Children in The Gambia, their teachers and parents.  It is now registered as a charity for tax purposes, meaning Gift Aid can be claimed on all donations.

This site highlights the activities of the GDCSP, including the continuing training and development of local support staff by volunteer professionals from the UK and the supply of the necessary equipment.

If you feel that you can support the work of the charity in any way please contact us.  We hope you find this website of interest.