Deaf Awareness Week 2025

Across the United Kingdom, 1 in 3 people have some form of hearing loss, whether that be that they are deaf, hard of hearing or experiencing tinnitus. Ultimately, there is a high chance that someone close to you has some form of hearing loss. This could be a family member, a friend, or a colleague. Despite this striking statistic, hearing loss often goes unacknowledged, leading to feelings of isolation for those affected. By becoming more aware this Deaf Awareness Week, we can all play a part in creating a more inclusive and accessible society, one where communication is clear and where support is readily available.

When further asked why there was a lack of confidence when communicating with deaf people and people with hearing loss, 42% reported that it was because they didn’t have much experience and 34% said they simply didn’t know how to. This gap in knowledge and experience directly impacts deaf and hard of hearing communities, making everyday interactions more difficult and often alienating. This can be changed though, and we can bridge the gap with the use of effective deaf awareness training.

Employers, educators, and individuals all have a role to play. Workplaces can ensure that visual information is provided, for example, with the user of pagers and flashing lights, as opposed to auditory alarms. Additionally, schools can incorporate inclusive teaching methods and encourage students to learn about communication differences. Ultimately, it is important to note that not all deaf people communicate in the same manner. Some individuals will use sign language, while others may rely on lip reading. There is no one size fits all approach, and what matters most is being respectful and willing to learn.

How to make communciation more accessible:

Taking meaningful action in our everyday lives starts with small, conscious efforts to make communication more accessible. Here are some tips to get started:

• Make sure you have an individual’s attention. A gentle wave, a tap on the shoulder or eye contact can go a long way. Avoid jumping straight into conversation, as individuals may miss out on dialogue and ultimately feel a sense of isolation.
• Learn some basic sign language. Having even a basic knowledge of BSL is a great way to communicate with a deaf person. Learning to fingerspell your name is a good place to start.
• Ask someone’s communication preference: Some people may use sign language, others might prefer to write things down, and some may use assistive technology. One should respect their choice and adapt communication style accordingly.
• Reduce background noise: Assistive devices, such as hearing aids and cochlear implants help to amplify sounds. Those who use these devices find it difficult to focus on your voice if there is constant background noise. Ensuring unnecessary noise is reduced is essential.
• Don’t say, “it doesn’t matter”. It does matter. When someone asks you to repeat yourself, don’t just brush them off. Doing this, even unintentionally, can leave a person feeling isolated. Take a moment to rephrase, write it down, or find another way to communicate your message.

Being deaf aware highlights a willingness to learn and an openness. By educating yourself and those around you, communication barriers are not only bridged but a culture of inclusion is embraced. This deaf awareness week, strive to learn ways in which you can make communication seamless.

Coming September:

Codebreakers: The Spy Series Teaching Kids the Power of BSL

Two undercover agents. One suspicious headteacher. And a school full of secrets waiting to be uncovered – Welcome to Codebreakers, a fun and enticing series where spies go undercover as teachers to uncover the truth behind the mysterious Mr. Green. But there’s a twist: the agents and their students’ “Recruits” decode secrets using British Sign Language (BSL), turning every clue and mission into a learning opportunity for young viewers.

Designed to make BSL both accessible and exciting, Codebreakers blends the thrill of spy adventures with the fundamentals of non-verbal communication, opening the door for children to see BSL as a vital, everyday language – not just something used in specialist settings. Through interactive episodes, children not only learn the basics of BSL but also gain confidence in their social skills, especially when communicating and connecting with Deaf peers. Set in a familiar school environment, the show mirrors the topics children are already exploring in class, reinforcing learning through play. With mystery, teamwork, and community at its heart, Codebreakers promotes unity, curiosity, and inclusion – proving that learning a new language can be the ultimate secret weapon.