RNID: For deaf and hard of hearing people.

Use these tips to communicate successfully with someone who is deaf or hard of hearing:

  • Even if someone is wearing a hearing aid it doesn't mean they can hear you. Ask if they need to lipread.
  • If you are using communication support always remember to talk directly to the person you are communicating with, not the interpreter.
  • It is important to make sure you have face-to-face or eye-to-eye contact with the person you are talking to.
  • Make sure you have the listener's attention before you start speaking.
  • Speak clearly but not too slowly, and don't exaggerate your lip movements.
  • Use natural facial expressions and gestures.
  • If you're talking to a deaf person and a hearing person, don't just focus on the hearing person.
  • Don't shout. It's uncomfortable for a hearing aid user and it looks aggressive.
  • If someone doesn't understand what you've said, don't keep repeating it. Try saying it in a different way instead.
  • Find a suitable place to talk, with good lighting and away from noise and distractions.
  • Check that the person you're talking to can follow you. Be patient and take the time to communicate properly.
  • Use plain language and don't waffle. Avoid jargon and unfamiliar abbreviations.

Every day we strive to ensure that all people in our society are aware of the communication needs of deaf and hard of hearing people. Many deaf and hard of hearing people rely on lip reading and facial expression to communicate and we are aware that these people may have difficulties in communicating with Muslim women wearing the full veil. We would hope that under those circumstances consideration would be given to a deaf or hard of hearing person's communication needs.