Deaf Explorer CIC is moving towards closure following a period of significant organisational challenge, reflection and review. Over recent years, the company has worked to support Deaf artists, strengthen Deaf-led creative practice, and build partnerships across the arts sector in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The organisation continued to deliver meaningful work during a difficult period, including artist development, sector partnerships, accessible evaluation tools, governance improvement, and support for Deaf creatives to access new opportunities. This included work with festivals, theatres, outdoor arts partners and Deaf-led creative projects. The report to Arts Council England recognised that Deaf Explorer’s work took place against a backdrop of challenges around trust, governance, communication and organisational sustainability, but also showed a continuing commitment to transparency, accountability and improvement.
The decision to close is being managed responsibly, with a focus on meeting obligations, protecting the legacy of the work, and ensuring that learning from Deaf Explorer can inform future Deaf-led cultural development. Although Deaf Explorer CIC is closing, the need for stronger Deaf leadership, accessible communication, and better routes for Deaf artists and audiences into the arts sector remains clear.
Deaf Explorer CIC 
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