Nissan crew go 'extra mile' to learn sign language

Nissan says it hopes more of its staff will learn sign language

Staff at a Nissan car plant have taken it upon themselves to learn sign language to better communicate with their deaf colleagues.

Thirteen members of the bumper paint crew at Sunderland took part in an 11-week course to earn a qualification in basic signing.

Michael Connolly, who is deaf and has worked at the factory for 15 years, described their efforts as "brilliant".

Their work zone has also been overhauled so activities such as training, meetings and briefings now use visual aids.

Mr Connolly said: "I used to rely on lip reading, but now the team sign which makes it easier.

"It's been great to see. The team's interest is fantastic."

'Pulling together'

Peter Haydon, a senior supervisor in the plant’s paint shop, said the course had been difficult but worthwhile.

"Although we're not experts by any means, it's nice to have the ability to just ask, 'How are you doing?' after the weekend. But we plan to go much further," he explained.

Michael Connolly (left) and Gowan Kirkley are among the firm's deaf members of staff

Nissan employs 6,000 people at the factory and it hopes other members of staff who would like to learn sign language will be able to as part of a company-run scheme.

HR director Michael Jude said: "I'm so impressed by the members of the team who've taken it upon themselves to learn a new language.

"It's a fantastic example of our people pulling together and going that extra mile to support each other."