Stewart Simpson Obituary

It was with great sadness we learned of the sudden passing of Stewart Simpson on 21st April 2020. Stewart became involved with the Deaf Community when he headed the communication project the Council for the Advancement of Communication with Deaf People. This started life in 1980 as a DHSS funded project under the administration of the British Deaf Association whose headquarters were in Carlisle at this time. CACDP as it was known became an independent charity in 1982 and under Stewart’s inspired leadership, grew from a small project to a national organisation, raising the profile of British Sign Language and of professional interpreters. In 1999 Stewart received the OBE in recognition of his work in improving communication between Deaf and hearing people.

At a time when Stewart was a high profile personality on the national Deaf scene, Cumbria Deaf Association was fortunate to secure him as its President. For Stewart this was never a mere honorary position. He was a hands on worker from the first and was instrumental in the success of the Millenium Appeal.

Stewart was a kind, caring gentleman who was always interested in the running of CDA and in the welfare of its staff. On the day he died he had contacted the office to check on how the Association, its members and staff were coping at this difficult time.

CDA was indeed fortunate to benefit from such an enthusiastic and charismatic friend and supporter. Our thoughts are with Val and the family.