What Would You Say?
This week is Deaf Awareness Week.
Does Deaf Awareness Week matter?
What would you say?
We asked some people from different backgrounds, and with different levels of hearing, for their thoughts:
Do you think it is important that people are deaf aware?
“Yes it’s important, because then everyone can be included”
Nadine (11, hearing) & Dominic (9, hearing)
“Yes. If people are not aware it can lead to misunderstanding or considered rudeness.”
Paul (hard of hearing)
“Yes, it is vital people are deaf and hearing loss aware.
Why? For people with hearing loss to have better access to the wider community, church services and activities and be included.”
Sharon (hard of hearing)
“Yes, absolutely, people should be aware. Anyone with any hearing loss will have a very different experience of the world and may feel isolated, which can significantly impact their life. If more people were aware, we could all make a positive difference.”
Kevin (hearing)
“I think it's very important. Because initially, to others, deafness is a hidden disability, and unless we make people aware of our limited hearing, we will lose out on many aspects of social life.”
Pam (hard of hearing)
What would you say?
If you could say one thing to help people understand about deafness, what would it be?
“If you’re patient, you can still communicate; just use your hands and face!”
Nadine (11, hearing) & Dominic (9, hearing)
“I would stress how isolating deafness is.”
Paul (hard of hearing)
“I ‘hear and communicate differently’ to people without hearing loss and communication challenges.”
Sharon (hard of hearing)
“Deafness isn’t just about not hearing; it’s about communication, connection and being included.”
Kevin (hearing)
“During a conversation with friends, put your fingers in your ears and get a feel for what it's like to have limited hearing.”
Pam (hard of hearing)
What would you say?
Helen Keller, who was herself deaf, said that ‘deafness separates people from people’ – would you agree?
“It doesn’t mean you can’t still be friends with a deaf person!”
Nadine (11, hearing) & Dominic (9, hearing)
“Yes, I agree, it can.”
Paul (hard of hearing)
“Yes, this has been my personal experience on many occasions.”
Sharon (hard of hearing)
“Yes, I agree. Deep down, we all long for community, connection and understanding. So anything we can do to include others and be mindful of those who may be struggling helps create a kinder, more welcoming world for everyone.”
Kevin (hearing)
“It certainly does. Sometimes it feels like everyone is speaking a foreign language. Sometimes I just smile and nod, instead of saying ‘pardon’ for the second or third time. It’s particularly difficult in a room where many conversations are going on around you.”
Pam (hard of hearing)
What would you say?
In three words or fewer, what does hearing loss mean to you?
“Must be tough”
Nadine (11, hearing) & Dominic (9, hearing)
“Exclusion, frustration.”
Paul (hard of hearing)
“Overlooked, undervalued, misunderstood.”
Sharon (hard of hearing)
“Learning to cope.”
Kevin (hearing)
“Missing out!”
Pam (hard of hearing)
That’s why Deaf Awareness Week matters.
If you could join a free Zoom to become more Deaf Aware, what would you say?
You’re invited:
https://www.openears.org.uk/hearing-loss-awareness-training
What will you say?
