National Deaf Children’s Society
National Deaf Children’s Society is the charity for deaf children with any level of hearing loss. They support deaf children and everyone who cares about them. Whatever the question or challenge, they help find a way through. They believe nothing should hold deaf children back.
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Being deaf-friendly
Every deaf person is different, and they communicate in different ways including speech, using sign language or both.
Being deaf-friendly
Tips for deaf-friendly
communication
Here are some simple tips to help you start a conversation with a deaf person:
How does the deaf person prefer to communicate?
Not all deaf people use British Sign Language (BSL). Some use speech, BSL or both. Ask if they need any communication support, and if so, find out what type and what level.
Get the deaf person’s attention
Try waving or tapping their shoulder lightly. Things will be easier if you can reduce background noise, but if you’re struggling, try writing or typing it instead.
Show your face
Make sure you’re visible and well-lit. Covering your mouth, eating or moving around whilst talking can make lip-reading difficult.
Be clear
Deaf people may lip-read, so remember to speak clearly, pronounce properly and not to shout. Speak at a normal pace, and try not to exaggerate as that can be more difficult to understand.
More Ways to Learn
Fingerspelling alphabet
This is used to spell out names or places that don’t have their own sign.
Learn to fingerspell
Even more British Sign Language
Starting a conversation is great, but like any language, it takes time and practice to learn and use BSL fluently.
Find out moreFind out deaf young people’s dos and don’ts of deaf awareness
Learn a phrase in BSL
Try out some of our friendly British Sign Language lessons here.
View all lessons
Cadbury Fingers & National Deaf Children’s Society
How are Cadbury Fingers and the National Deaf Children’s Society helping deaf children, young people, and their families?
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