Impact-driven community leader and communications specialist with 20+ years’ experience working across faith, charity, digital, and creative sectors. I bring a unique blend of strategic leadership, safeguarding expertise, domestic abuse advocacy, technical literacy, and cross-cultural communication. My work spans supporting under-represented communities, founding Diverse Digital 2.0 to amplify marginalised voices in tech, and delivering specialist safeguarding and domestic abuse training tailored for faith spaces and culturally diverse communities. With extensive experience in BSL/English translation, journalism, content creation, and digital communications, I excel in building bridges between organisations and the communities they serve. I am a confident trainer, coach, public speaker, and published author, known for developing inclusive resources, trauma-informed training, and accessible communications that empower individuals and strengthen community systems. CORE SKILLS • Strategic partnership building (faith, community & third sector) • Safeguarding & domestic abuse (faith settings, cultural contexts, marginalised groups) • Training design, facilitation & coaching • BSL/English translation & interpretation • Digital strategy, CRM (HubSpot), websites, analytics & social media • Copywriting, journalism & marketing content creation • Community engagement & EDI advocacy • Project development, research & stakeholder management

Dionne Simpson

Impact-driven community leader and communications specialist with 20+ years’ experience working across faith, charity, digital, and creative sectors. I bring a unique blend of strategic leadership, safeguarding expertise, domestic abuse advocacy, technical literacy, and cross-cultural communication. My work spans supporting under-represented communities, founding Diverse Digital 2.0 to amplify marginalised voices in tech, and delivering specialist safeguarding and domestic abuse training tailored for faith spaces and culturally diverse communities. With extensive experience in BSL/English translation, journalism, content creation, and digital communications, I excel in building bridges between organisations and the communities they serve. I am a confident trainer, coach, public speaker, and published author, known for developing inclusive resources, trauma-informed training, and accessible communications that empower individuals and strengthen community systems. CORE SKILLS • Strategic partnership building (faith, community & third sector) • Safeguarding & domestic abuse (faith settings, cultural contexts, marginalised groups) • Training design, facilitation & coaching • BSL/English translation & interpretation • Digital strategy, CRM (HubSpot), websites, analytics & social media • Copywriting, journalism & marketing content creation • Community engagement & EDI advocacy • Project development, research & stakeholder management

Available to hire

Impact-driven community leader and communications specialist with 20+ years’
experience working across faith, charity, digital, and creative sectors. I bring a unique
blend of strategic leadership, safeguarding expertise, domestic abuse advocacy,
technical literacy, and cross-cultural communication.
My work spans supporting under-represented communities, founding Diverse Digital 2.0
to amplify marginalised voices in tech, and delivering specialist safeguarding and
domestic abuse training tailored for faith spaces and culturally diverse communities.
With extensive experience in BSL/English translation, journalism, content creation, and
digital communications, I excel in building bridges between organisations and the
communities they serve.
I am a confident trainer, coach, public speaker, and published author, known for
developing inclusive resources, trauma-informed training, and accessible
communications that empower individuals and strengthen community systems.
CORE SKILLS
• Strategic partnership building (faith, community & third sector)
• Safeguarding & domestic abuse (faith settings, cultural contexts, marginalised
groups)
• Training design, facilitation & coaching
• BSL/English translation & interpretation
• Digital strategy, CRM (HubSpot), websites, analytics & social media
• Copywriting, journalism & marketing content creation
• Community engagement & EDI advocacy
• Project development, research & stakeholder management

See more

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Head of Faith Partnerships at Faithful
May 1, 2025 - September 9, 2025
Led national outreach to engage UK faith groups, built strategic relationships with faith leaders and networks, and represented the organisation at national and regional events. Oversaw marketing, CRM (HubSpot), and digital assets; designed and delivered tailored training for staff; improved service delivery and customer experience.
Communication and Digital Content Manager at SignHealth
December 1, 2022 - Present
Supported internal and external communications, including social media, e-newsletters, website development (SEO and WCAG 2.1), analytics, and media relations. Coordinated with agencies and freelancers to deliver campaigns and PR; improved data sharing and project workflows with bilingual English/BSL content.
Director (Part time) at Visual Language Professionals
November 1, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Directed governance, policy, finance, and strategic planning; led CPD training programs, annual conference planning, and stakeholder engagement; developed and implemented a strategic marketing plan and represented the organisation at national events.
Social Media & Marketing Manager (Part time) at Sign Solutions
November 1, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Managed external marketing channels, collaborated on marketing strategy with the MD, coordinated with SEO agencies and freelancers, and maintained bilingual content (BSL/English) with accessible platforms.
BSL Interpreter Manager at Involve Interpreter
January 1, 2021 - September 9, 2025
Recruited to build a Video BSL interpreting service from the ground up, covering platform development, policy, pricing, recruitment, customer leads and retention, and long-term strategy.
Founder / Project Coordinator / Lead researcher at Deaf Business Academy CIC
June 1, 2018 - September 9, 2025
Founded a CIC to translate university business education into BSL, researched Deaf business terminology, established the Deaf Business Awards, and created the free BSL for Business course; collaborated with the University of Central Lancashire to translate modules.
VRS / VRI interpreter at SignLive
May 1, 2017 - September 9, 2025
Remote interpreting as part of a large team; managed calls, mentored new users, and maintained client confidentiality.
Translator at ITV Signpost
January 1, 2017 - September 9, 2025
Freelance live BSL translation for TV programming; prepared scripts and collaborated with technicians to ensure quality.
Owner & Director at Diverse Signs Translation Service
November 1, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Self-employed BSL interpreter providing services across education, medical, legal, business, and events; managed business operations, marketing, and client relations.
NW Office Manager; Fundraising assistant; Conference & Events coordinator; Membership officer at British Deaf Association
November 1, 2013 - September 9, 2025
Fulfilled multiple roles supporting campaigns, events, and membership administration; coordinated accessibility at conferences and managed communications.
Support worker for Deaf service users with mental health and learning disabilities at P.S.S Liverpool
November 1, 2003 - September 9, 2025
Provided support to Deaf service users with mental health and learning disabilities.
Communication support worker for Deaf students at Liverpool Community College
November 1, 2003 - September 9, 2025
Delivered communication support for Deaf students to facilitate learning.
Volunteer communication/ learning support worker for Deaf service users at Merseyside Society for Deaf People
September 1, 2002 - September 9, 2025
Volunteer support in communication and learning services for Deaf individuals.
Head of Faith Partnerships at Faithful
September 1, 2023 - Present
Led engagement with traditional and non-traditional faith communities across the UK, representing the organisation at national and regional events, exhibitions, and interfaith forums. Built strategic relationships with faith leaders and networks, positioning the organisation as a trusted and inclusive partner within diverse religious and cultural spaces. Generated new leads and opportunities across target markets; implemented marketing and communications strategies; oversaw digital assets including the website, CRM (HubSpot), and social media platforms; ensured brand visibility online and offline. Provided expert advice to internal teams and external stakeholders, nurtured key customer accounts, managed cross-functional communications, and reported on KPIs and business development activity. Designed and delivered tailored training and onboarding for new staff; managed external communications across digital, telephone, and face-to-face engagement; supported compliance and process improv
Communication and Digital Content Manager at SignHealth
August 31, 2023 - September 9, 2025
Supported all aspects of internal and external communications including social media, e-newsletters, website development (SEO and WCAG 2.1), analytics and data insights reporting, management applications and working with media, campaigns, events and PR. Worked towards key objectives and KPIs with the Comms team to promote SignHealth services and activities. Coordinated with agencies and freelancers to meet deadlines, and contributed to streamlining practices to improve data sharing and management systems in English and British Sign Language.
Director (Part time) at Visual Language Professionals
November 30, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Co-managed governance, policy, finance, and strategic planning. Supported development and delivery of large-scale CPD training programs, planned and delivered the annual conference, and implemented a strategic marketing plan including website and social media. Represented the organisation at UK/national stakeholder events and meetings.
Social Media & Marketing Manager (Part time) at Sign Solutions
November 30, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Responsible for all external marketing channels and assets. Worked with the Managing Director to develop marketing strategy using sector knowledge and analytics. Coordinated with an SEO agency, managed client database (HubSpot), liaised with internal departments and freelancers to deliver projects, and produced content in both written English and British Sign Language to ensure accessibility across platforms.
BSL Interpreter Manager at Involve Interpreter
December 31, 2021 - September 9, 2025
Recruited as a start-up specialist for a video BSL interpreting service; built the video platform from the ground up, established policy and procedures, led marketing, sales, pricing, recruitment, customer leads and retention strategies, and developed long-term service strategy.
Founder / Project Coordinator / Lead researcher at Deaf Business Academy CIC
June 30, 2018 - September 9, 2025
Founded the CIC to rectify Deaf entrepreneurs’ lack of access to business education and support. Translated University of Central Lancashire business education modules into BSL, researched business terminology, established Deaf Business Awards, and contributed to a lasting legacy for Deaf entrepreneurs. The BSL for Business course is available for free online.
VRS / VRI interpreter at SignLive
May 31, 2017 - September 9, 2025
Freelance position interpreting for Deaf and hearing clients via video platforms; represented Deaf voices, taught new users how to manage interpreted calls, and maintained confidentiality.
Translator at ITV Signpost
January 31, 2017 - September 9, 2025
Freelance BSL translation for live and recorded TV programming; prepared scripts, developed ‘To Camera’ skills, and collaborated with technicians to ensure translation quality.
Owner & Director at Diverse Signs Translation Service
November 30, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Self-employed BSL interpreter servicing education, medical, legal/police, business, conferences, events, TV & media; managed business finances, marketing, website, and communications; collaborated with Deaf and interpreter communities.
Various Roles (Fundraising Assistant, Office Manager, PA to Director of Comms, Conference & Events Coordinator, Membership Officer) at British Deaf Association
November 30, 2013 - September 9, 2025
Held multiple roles across fundraising, office management, communications, events, and membership; contributed to conference organization, accessibility planning, and stakeholder engagement.
Support Worker for Deaf service users with mental health and learning disabilities at P.S.S Liverpool
November 30, 2003 - September 9, 2025
Provided support to Deaf service users with mental health and learning disabilities; contributed to inclusive care approaches.
Communication Support Worker for Deaf students at Liverpool Community College
November 30, 2003 - September 9, 2025
Supported Deaf students in academic settings; facilitated effective communication in educational contexts.
Volunteer Communication / Learning Support Worker for Deaf service users at Merseyside Society for Deaf People
September 30, 2002 - September 9, 2025
Volunteered in communications and learning support roles for Deaf service users.
Head of Faith Partnerships at Faithful
September 1, 2023 - Present
Led engagement with traditional and non-traditional faith communities across the UK, building strategic relationships, generating new leads, and delivering marketing and communications strategies across digital assets (website, HubSpot CRM, social media).Provided guidance to internal teams and external stakeholders, nurtured key accounts, reported on KPIs, and designed staff onboarding. Led planning to improve service delivery and customer experience.
Communication and Digital Content Manager at SignHealth
August 31, 2023 - September 9, 2025
Managed internal and external communications including social media, e-newsletters, website development (SEO and WCAG 2.1), analytics and data insights, campaigns, events and PR. Worked toward KPIs with the Comms team; coordinated with agencies and freelancers; delivered bilingual English/BSL content.
Director (Part time) at Visual Language Professionals
November 30, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Led governance, policy, finance and strategic planning; supported CPD training programs and annual conference; developed and executed a strategic marketing plan including website and social media; represented the organisation at UK/national stakeholder events.
Social Media & Marketing Manager (Part time) at Sign Solutions
November 30, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Managed external marketing channels and assets; developed marketing strategy with the MD; collaborated with an SEO agency; managed client database (HubSpot); liaised with internal departments and freelancers; created bilingual English/BSL content and ensured accessibility across platforms.
BSL Interpreter Manager at Involve Interpreter
January 1, 2021 - September 9, 2025
Recruited as a start-up specialist to build a Video BSL interpreting service; oversaw video platform development, policy and procedures, marketing, sales, pricing, recruitment, customer leads and retention; developed long-term service strategy.
Founder / Project Coordinator / Lead researcher at Deaf Business Academy CIC
June 30, 2018 - September 9, 2025
Founded to rectify lack of BSL access for Deaf entrepreneurs; translated University modules into BSL; researched business terminology; established Deaf Business Awards; created a free BSL for Business course; built lasting legacy.
VRS / VRI interpreter at SignLive
May 31, 2017 - September 9, 2025
Part of a large team delivering remote BSL/English interpretation; managed calls; trained new users; maintained confidentiality.
Translator at ITV Signpost
January 31, 2017 - September 9, 2025
Live BSL translation for TV programming; scripting, on-camera delivery; collaborated with technicians to ensure output quality and accuracy.
Owner & Director at Diverse Signs Translation Service
November 30, 2022 - September 9, 2025
Freelance BSL interpreter service; bookings across education, medical, legal, police, business, conferences and events; managed finances, marketing, website and communications; remained involved after retirement.
Various roles including Fundraising Assistant, NW Office Manager, PA to Director of Comms, Conference & Events Coordinator, Membership Officer at British Deaf Association
November 30, 2013 - September 9, 2025
Fundraising, communications, office management, conference coordination, membership management; ensured accessibility for conferences.
Support worker for Deaf service users with mental health and learning disabilities at P.S.S Liverpool
November 30, 2003 - September 9, 2025
Communication support worker for Deaf students at Liverpool Community College
November 30, 2003 - September 9, 2025
Volunteer communication/learning support worker for Deaf service users at Merseyside Society for Deaf People
September 30, 2002 - September 9, 2025
Head of Faith Partnerships at Faithful
May 1, 2025 - May 1, 2025
Led engagement with traditional and non-traditional faith communities across the UK, building strategic relationships with faith leaders and networks and expanding the organisation's presence in diverse religious spaces. Generated new leads, developed business opportunities, and oversaw marketing and communications strategies, including website, CRM (HubSpot), and social media. Managed external communications, trained staff, and supported compliance and process improvements to enhance service delivery. Reported on KPIs and supported cross-functional collaboration to improve customer experience.
Communication and Digital Content Manager at SignHealth
August 1, 2023 - August 1, 2023
Managed internal and external communications, including social media, e-newsletters, and website development (SEO and WCAG 2.1). Produced analytics and data insights, managed campaigns and events, and collaborated with agencies and freelancers to meet deadlines. Streamlined working practices to improve team communication and data management, supporting promotion of SignHealth services and charity activities.
Director (Part time) at Visual Language Professionals
November 1, 2022 - November 1, 2022
Led governance, policy, finance, and strategic planning as part of the director team. Supported CPD training program development, planned the annual conference, and delivered a strategic marketing plan including website and social media management. Represented the organisation at UK/national stakeholder events and meetings.
Social Media & Marketing Manager (Part time) at Sign Solutions
November 1, 2022 - November 1, 2022
Oversaw all external marketing channels and assets. Collaborated with the MD to develop marketing strategy using analytics, worked with an SEO agency, managed the client database (HubSpot), and coordinated with internal departments and freelancers to deliver projects. Produced bilingual content in English and British Sign Language and ensured inclusive access across platforms.
BSL Interpreter Manager at Involve Interpreter
December 31, 2021 - December 31, 2021
Recruited as a start-up specialist to build a Video BSL interpreting service, including platform development, policy and procedures, marketing, sales, pricing, recruitment, and long-term service strategy.
Founder / Project Coordinator / Lead researcher at Deaf Business Academy CIC
June 1, 2018 - June 1, 2018
Founded a CIC to rectify Deaf entrepreneurs' access to business education. Led research and development with Deaf and hearing entrepreneurs, partnered with the University of Central Lancashire to translate business education modules into BSL, and established the Deaf Business Awards. Developed the BSL for Business course for free access.
VRS / VRI Interpreter at SignLive
May 1, 2017 - May 1, 2017
Freelance position as part of a large team of remote BSL/English interpreters, managing calls from Deaf and hearing clients, representing Deaf perspectives, and teaching new users how to manage interpreted calls while maintaining confidentiality.
BSL Translator at ITV Signpost
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2017
Freelance role delivering high-quality live-recorded BSL translation for TV programming, including script learning, on-camera skills, and collaboration with technicians to ensure accurate translation.
Owner & Director at Diverse Signs Translation Service
November 1, 2022 - November 1, 2022
Self-employed BSL interpreter providing interpreting and translation across education, medical, legal, police, business, conferences, events, TV, and media. Managed business finances, marketing, website, and communications for over two decades.
Various Roles at British Deaf Association
November 1, 2013 - November 1, 2013
Progressed from volunteer to multiple roles including fundraising, NW Office Manager, PA to Director of Communications, Conference & Events Coordinator, and Membership Officer. Gained extensive experience in stakeholder engagement, accessibility planning, conference organization, and member communications.
Support Worker for Deaf Service Users with Mental Health and Learning Disabilities at P.S.S Liverpool
November 1, 2003 - November 1, 2003
Provided support services for Deaf individuals with mental health and learning disabilities, contributing to person-centered care and communication support.
Communication Support Worker for Deaf Students at Liverpool Community College
November 1, 2003 - November 1, 2003
Delivered sign language support to Deaf students, facilitating access to education and supporting inclusive learning environments.
Volunteer Communication/Learning Support Worker for Deaf Service Users at Merseyside Society for Deaf People
September 1, 2002 - September 1, 2002
Provided communication and learning support as a volunteer, contributing to services for Deaf individuals and community engagement.
Owner & Director at Diverse Signs Translation Service
November 1, 2022 - June 21, 2013
Self-employed BSL interpreter providing services across education, medical, legal, business, and events; managed business operations, marketing, and client relations.

Education

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Qualifications

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Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Education, Professional Services, Government, Other, Healthcare