Oral History Session with Dr Siobhán Stevenson

On 5th March 2025, we had the pleasure of hosting an enriching oral history session led by Dr. Siobhán L. Stevenson, a Birmingham-based Oral History Consultant and Audio Producer. Siobhán specialises in capturing life stories and experiences, working with a diverse range of clients to bring their projects to life from concept to delivery. Her passion lies in audio and oral histories, and she is dedicated to training individuals to produce and share audio features, documentaries, and podcasts.

This session was part of our 100-Year Heritage of Walsall Deaf Community project, which celebrates and preserves the rich history, experiences, and contributions of the Deaf community in Walsall over the past century. Through archival research, film production, and community engagement, we are documenting stories that might otherwise be lost, ensuring that the stories and histories of Walsall’s Deaf community are recognised and shared for generations to come.

The session itself was both informative and engaging, covering two hours of interview techniques and exploring various interview shot ideas. Participants shared a few captivating stories, enriching the experience with their personal narratives. These skills and insights will be invaluable as we continue collecting oral histories for our documentary and wider heritage work.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Siobhán Stevenson for sharing her expertise and to all attendees for their enthusiastic participation. The insights gained and connections made during this session will undoubtedly enhance our ongoing oral history initiatives.

If you’re interested in getting involved or staying updated on our project’s progress, please reach out to us!

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About Zebra Access

Zebra Access is a truly Deaf-led charity recognised by the Deaf community as dedicated to developing opportunities for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of Hearing people to have better chances in life and enjoy equal participation and access without communication barriers, providing access to a range of activities enabling Deaf people to have self-belief and confidence to achieve their aspirations by breaking down perceived barriers. Zebra Access aims to promote and advocate healthier lifestyles by raising and improving awareness of available activities and other health choices. We have pioneered effective ways of working with Deaf people providing fully accessible services to provide Deaf customers with holistic and empathetic support via our experts-through-experience members of staff and volunteers.

About The National Lottery Heritage Fund: 

The National Lottery Heritage Fund is the largest funder for the UK’s heritage. Using money raised by National Lottery players we support projects that connect people and communities to heritage. Our vision is for heritage to be valued, cared for and sustained for everyone, now and in the future. From historic buildings, our industrial legacy and the natural environment, to collections, traditions, stories and more. Heritage can be anything from the past that people value and want to pass on to future generations. We believe in the power of heritage to ignite the imagination, offer joy and inspiration, and to build pride in place and connection to the past.