An innovative programme has given the hearing impaired greater access to the historical and cultural wealth of Havana. A sign language interpreter would accompany tourists to Old Havana, the historic part of the Cuban capital, if the group included hearing impaired.

The programme, Cultura entre las Manos, was started in early February by Yalena G Gispert the head of Havana Radio. The programme offers monthly historical tours and organizes debates.

“I am delighted with the idea; I don’t miss any of the meetings,” Roberto Mesa, a graphic designer, told the news agency ips, with the help of interpreter Carmen Salgado, head of the sign language interpreting degree programme at the University of Havana.