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Top Tips for Churches on being Deaf Aware
1 in 6 people have some form of hearing loss, from mild to profound. How many people in your church have hearing loss?
Social Settings
Social and group meetings are particularly difficult for hearing aid users.
Deaf BSL users, lip readers, or those not wearing a hearing aid, can only take part in a group if they can lipread, or if an interpreter is present.
British Sign Language
An interpreter is needed for deaf BSL users to access church worship and other functions.
Do tell us of any church using an interpreter so we can let others know.
Deaf Awareness Training
Arrange deaf awareness training, particularly for church leaders, staff and volunteers.
Leaders can use a microphone to give out information about deaf awareness from the speaking platform. Speakers will need to understand problems with background music, and the suitability of rooms and how to be inclusive in any community gathering.
Attention
Make sure you have the attention of the person before you start speaking, perhaps by tapping on the shoulder or waving.
Check whether the person understands what you are saying, and if not, try saying it in a different way. Never say, “Don’t worry about it.”
Free Download
Download your free, print-friendly ‘Top Tips for Churches on Being Deaf Aware’ here.
Good Lighting
Places with good lighting and little or no background noise are best for conversations and meetings.
A quality loop system enables members with T bar/loop hearing aids to access & participate in services, prayer groups and meetings.
ALL speakers and leaders need to use a microphone.
Loop
Check the loop is working with a hearing aid user before services. Flag up the loop system by symbols at the entrance, on notice sheets and magazines, etc.
MUSIC BEHIND SPEECH is very unhelpful to people with hearing loss, and may mean they can’t follow the speech at all.
Speak Clearly
Use plain language, normal lip movements and facial expressions. Speak clearly and don’t cover your mouth while speaking, or turn away.
Keep your voice down because it’s uncomfortable for a hearing aid user if you shout.
Finger Spelling
Learn finger spelling or some basic British Sign Language (BSL).
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