This new series for BBC One and iPlayer will see Rose take a group of older people on an extraordinary and emotional journey as they take up the challenge of learning British Sign Language. Rose intends to turn the spotlight on the issue of hearing loss among the older generation and the impact it can have on an individual’s health and wellbeing. An estimated 75% of older people experience hearing loss, expected to increase to 80% by 2032, so there’s no better place to start this unique experiment than with the residents a retirement village.
Considered a major public health issue, hearing loss can be easily dismissed and go undiagnosed leading to further problems and barriers later in life. In this profound and heartwarming project, Rose explores if BSL (British Sign Language) has the potential to improve the quality of life in old age and benefit us all as we get older. She will also expose the lack of provision for people like her in later life.
Across the series, audiences will experience the joy and the challenge of learning how to communicate with BSL through the ups and downs of a handful of wonderful characters at Hughenden Gardens Retirement Village who are smashing through the stereotypes of old age and showing us all what is possible. We will witness uplifting moments including students as old as 95, some with arthritis in their hands, signing to each other with the help of Deaf tutors working alongside Rose; deaf children as young as 5 comparing notes with the older people on what scares them as well as their hopes and dreams for the future, a Deaf Rave in which older residents experience the power of music in an entirely new way; and a visit from the much loved Deaf Chefs who are moved to tears by the enthusiastic take-up for signing in this unlikeliest of settings.
Supported by and in consultation with experts and professionals, Rose is doing something that has never been done before and may well change perspectives on the role of BSL in the lives of people who have hearing loss in later life. But, above all, Rose’s experiment will capture the joy of communicating and the power of community.
I knew filming this show would be a challenge, but what I have experienced teaching the residents sign language has gone beyond my expectations. It is an experience I will cherish for a lifetime and I just can’t wait for viewers to see the series. — Rose Ayling-Ellis
James Rogan, Director, Rogan Productions says: “After Signs for Change, we are delighted to be working with Rose again on this ground-breaking series. This experiment addresses a burning issue in society with the sense of love, lightness of touch and deep engagement that we have come to expect from Rose.”
Camilla Arnold, Series Producer, Rogan Productions says: “Witnessing the language of my community, the deaf community, being embraced and used by the wider world has been a truly magical experience. This film not only puts a long-awaited spotlight on British Sign Language (BSL) but also carries a powerful message: BSL is for everyone, and, more importantly, it serves as an invaluable tool against the hearing loss that often accompanies old age.
Signs for Living with Rose Ayling-Ellis (w/t) 2×60 for BBC One and iPlayer was commissioned by Clare Sillery, Head of Commissioning, Documentaries for the BBC. It is produced by BAFTA-winning Rogan Productions and directed by Simon Gilchrist. The series producer is Camilla Arnold, Executive producers are Teresa Watkins, James Rogan and Soleta Rogan. Ethan Blake Brooks is producer/director and producer is Dan Hall. The BBC Commissioning Editors are Emma Loach and Caroline O’Neill.
