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Honouring achievements of people with sensory impairments

Double Paralympian gold medallist, Steve Bate, was the special guest at the 2016 Sense Awards, held at the Southbank Centre in London on November 10th. The event honoured the achievements of people with sensory impairments and those supporting them. Among the winners this year was Susan White, awarded ‘Deafblind person of the year’ for her contribution to a new disability centre being built in Birmingham, TouchBase Pears.

Group shot of Sense Award winners

Steve Bate, who made the history books for becoming the first visually impaired person to solo climb El Capitan in Yosemite, California, shared with the audience the story of his incredible journey to achieving gold at the Rio Paralympic Games.

Elite cyclist and Paralympian gold medallist Steve Bate said:

"The Sense Awards is a wonderful way to recognise the inspiring achievements of people who are deafblind, and those who make a very real difference to their lives. I was delighted to be asked to take part in the event and it was an honour to present the awards to the thoroughly deserving winners."

2016 Sense Awards Winners:

  • Deafblind person of the Year - Susan White
  • Young Person of the Year - Ella Chapple
  • Young Sibling of the Year - Morgan Steele
  • Volunteer of the Year - Lesley Rogers
  • Fundraiser of the Year - Diya Karwal
  • Collaboration Award - National Citizen Service

Sense Chief Executive Gill Morbey said:

"People who are deafblind, and those with complex needs, often face major challenges in life.  The Sense Awards recognise some of the fantastic achievements of these individuals, as well as the work of the wonderful people who support them. I have been hugely impressed by the dedication, determination and good work of all the nominees and would like to congratulate all of our winners."

Sense is a national charity that supports people who are deafblind, have sensory impairments or complex needs, to enjoy more independent lives. Visit the Sense website.