RNID research reveals public uncertainty around communicating with deaf people
New research published by RNID has revealed that almost a quarter of people would avoid someone who is deaf if they thought communication would be too difficult.
The findings highlight the everyday barriers still faced by deaf people and those with hearing loss or tinnitus, from shopping and visiting the GP to socialising.
And despite a surge in deaf stars seeing huge success and increasing representation on shows like Strictly and Bake Off – in real life the picture is far less rosy for deaf people in the UK today.
According to the charity’s study, almost a quarter of people say they would avoid a conversation with someone who is deaf or has hearing loss, if it felt difficult.
The research also found almost a third of people worry about saying or doing the wrong thing when communicating with someone who is deaf or has hearing loss, and more than two in five people worry they may seem patronising when trying to communicate with someone who is deaf or has hearing loss.
There were however reasons to be hopeful. The study suggested that many people do want to communicate better with people who are deaf or have hearing loss, but think they may lack the necessary skills and confidence.
The research found that 69 per cent of the public think knowing how to communicate with deaf people and people with hearing loss is everyone’s responsibility, and the vast majority of people, at 78 per cent, would be willing to learn simple ways to communicate with deaf people and people with hearing loss better.
This is backed up by a previous report from the charity which found the public want to communicate with deaf people, but are worried about getting it wrong. The report also revealed that deaf people want others to communicate with them, underlining the fact it’s better for people to try, rather than ignore someone altogether.
Commenting on the research, disability activist and TV personality Tasha Ghouri said: “Being deaf in a world made for hearing people can feel like being in an invisible box. With a few simple changes, we can include everyone.
“Nobody should struggle doing everyday things like shopping, visiting the doctors or socialising. It’s time to smash the invisible barriers and build a society where everyone is included.
“I was born deaf, so I’m familiar with everyday challenges people with hearing loss face. How you’re forced to adapt, just to survive modern life. Things have moved on since I was younger, but this research shows there’s still a way to go.
“The good news is, a more inclusive world is within reach. By changing the way we communicate, with a few small adjustments we can ensure deaf people are part of the conversation and no longer face barriers and hurdles.”
RNID has been calling for the public to join its ‘It does matter’ campaign which equips people with simple communication tips and videos to learn basic phrases in British Sign Language (BSL). Almost 50,000 people have joined the campaign so far.
Crystal Rolfe, Director of Health at RNID, said: “This research is a stark reminder that we still live in a society that shuts out deaf people and those with hearing loss. Often this is unintentional, but for deaf people it means everyday activities and interactions can be full of invisible barriers – from visiting the shops to catching public transport.
“Our research shows the effect this has on millions of people who are deaf of have hearing loss. Negative experiences build up over time and have a significant impact, making people feel lonely and isolated, hitting their confidence.
“But there is hope. The research also confirms what we already know – that people do want to communicate better and recognise the importance of including everyone in the conversation – but may lack the skills and confidence.
“This Deaf Awareness week is the perfect opportunity to be more deaf-aware. By making small changes to how we communicate, we can break down the everyday communication barriers. Together we can ensure everyone is included and has the opportunity to thrive.”
