Deaf people have told an audience of employers about their experiences in work and education.

The event organised by Bradford College's Deaf Liaison Project aims to break down barriers.

The workshop took place last Friday at the Bradford University School of Management in Heaton and all speakers were deaf or hard of hearing.

Mark Hartley, Deaf Liaison Worker at Bradford College and himself profoundly deaf was the keynote speaker.

"A long time ago when I left school, I wanted to be a hairdresser, but my teacher told me I couldn't do that," he said.

"With the support of my parents I went on to do my City and Guilds at Bradford College and ran my own hairdressing business for seven years. I want to help other deaf people break down barriers like I did and I believe I can and am doing so with the support of the College and particularly the Department of Learning Support."

The workshop focused on deaf people's perception of the barriers to education; how to empower deaf people and how to raise awareness with employers.

Tammie Greenwood, event organiser said: "The event is about getting into the deaf community and culture and trying to learn first hand their experiences of education and employment."