welcome to the rose ayling ellis foundation
Empowering Families, Transforming Lives
Making British Sign Language Accessible for Deaf Children and Their Families
If you’d like to get involved or share your story with us, we’d love to hear from you – together we can create a brighter future for those in need, all inspired by Rose, our RAE of sunshine…
we sponsor bsl courses
So families of deaf children can connect, communicate, and build stronger relationships without financial barriers.
We support community projects
That create safe spaces for deaf children and their families to come together, share experiences, and feel included.
We work towards lasting change
By empowering families, strengthening deaf identity, and breaking the isolation that too many deaf children face.
the RAE Foundation
Transforming Lives Through Communication and Connection
Every child deserves the chance to connect with the world around them. At the RAE Foundation, we are committed to breaking barriers for deaf children and their families by making British Sign Language (BSL) accessible and supporting initiatives that bring the deaf community together.
Inspired by the journey of Rose Ayling-Ellis, our mission is to provide practical support where it’s needed most – because no family should feel isolated, and no child should grow up without a voice.
Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future.
I live and work in a world that disables me – if accessibility and inclusion was normalised, would I consider myself as disabled?
Rose X
the foundation
The 3 Pillars of the RAE Foundation
Empowerment Through Communication
Access to British Sign Language (BSL) empowers families to connect, communicate, and share a future full of understanding and possibility. We provide grants and resources to ensure every parent, carer, and relative can build strong bonds with their deaf child.
Empowerment Through Our Community
By supporting projects that bring deaf children and their families together, we create spaces where hope flourishes through shared experiences, inclusion, and belonging.
Empowerment Through Raising Awareness
Inspired by Rose Ayling-Ellis, we advocate for a world where deaf culture is celebrated, misconceptions are challenged, and accessibility is no longer a barrier—ensuring hope for brighter, more inclusive futures.
Our Story:
From Determination to Inspiration
Determined to give her daughter the best start, Donna travelled hours to attend British Sign Language (BSL) classes, often juggling the costs of tuition, childcare, and transportation. It wasn’t easy, but it was essential.
Rose's Story:
From Spotlight to Legacy
Her journey shone a spotlight on the challenges faced by the deaf community, inspiring a new wave of awareness and action.
The RAE Foundation continues this momentum, breaking barriers and creating opportunities so that no family has to face the struggles Donna once did.
Our Mission
We are dedicated to empowering families of deaf children by making British Sign Language accessible to parents, carers, and relatives. Through supporting projects that foster connection, inclusion, and community, we aim to strengthen deaf identity and create a world where every deaf child feels understood and valued.
How The Rose Effect is Inspiring a New Wave of Change
Shining a spotlight on the deaf community In 2021, Rose Ayling-Ellis became a household name, not just as a talented actor and performer but as a trailblazer for the deaf community. Her groundbreaking win as the first-ever deaf contestant on Strictly Come...
The Transformative Power of Community for the Deaf
Breaking isolation and building belonging For many deaf individuals, especially those in rural areas, feelings of isolation can become a significant challenge. Without a strong support network or opportunities to connect with others who share similar experiences, it’s...
The Importance of Early Language for Deaf Children
Every child deserves the chance to be heard & understood Language is the foundation of connection, understanding, and emotional development. For deaf children, access to a language they can fully embrace - whether through British Sign Language (BSL) or other...
Ninety Per Cent
Of deaf children are born to hearing parents who often lack access to sign language resources.
Language Deprivation
Impacts development – early communication is critical for emotional, social, & cognitive growth.
Inspired by Rose Ayling-Ellis
We’re creating real-world change by supporting families and strengthening deaf communities.
Why We Exist
Without access to BSL, many children face language deprivation, leading to lifelong challenges in emotional, cognitive, and social development. This gap is unacceptable—and we’re here to close it.