On Wednesday, April 29 the Treknow Rainbows got on board the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) Listening Bus to learn about deafness and the different ways they can communicate with people who are deaf or have a hearing impairment.

During the visit the Rainbows were able to experiment with the latest technology that deaf people use in every day life — such as smoke detectors, ­vibrating alarm clocks and videophones.

The group chose to ­support NDCS through the Hands up! Changing the World project by voting at their weekly meeting and they have been raising money and awareness for the charity. A street collection recently raised £22.30. Future planned events are a balloon release and strawberry picking/cream tea afternoon.

"I loved the vibrating alarm clock," Madie, aged six said. "It has been really good to learn about what it is like to be deaf."

Jayne Warton, the Unit Guider said: "The Rain­bows have had a fun time learning about deafness and just how difficult it is for deaf people. The girls had a wonderful time visiting the bus and it has given them an opportunity to see what all their hard work and enthusiasm has gone towards. It has been great to see them get involved and grow their understanding in so many different ways."

Girlguiding UK is open to all girls and young women, whatever their ability. Programme activities are adapted to make sure that all members can take advantage of the opportunities that Guiding provides.

Alison Burrell, NDCS Schools Officer, said: "It is fantastic that girls from Treknow Rainbows are changing the world and putting their hands up to support deaf children. The funds they raise through this project will go directly towards the NDCS Listen­ing Bus that will travel throughout the UK. The Listening Bus helps deaf children access the technology they need to improve their communication and develop confidence and independence, as well as educating hearing children about deaf awareness.

'Changing the World' is a year long community action project which will see the Girlguiding UK's 575,000 members support causes including helping runaways and street children, building a girls' school in Liberia, learning about HIV/Aids, and working with vulnerable or ­disadvantaged children.