Deaf Awareness Week: breaking down communication barriers in activity
Deaf Awareness Week runs from 19-25 May 2014 and the theme this year is “Equality in communication for all”. It is a unique campaign in that so many different organisations participate, each able to promote their own work within the broad deafness spectrum. The English Federation of Disability Sport (EFDS) recognises the importance that inclusive communications play in participation to reach more people in sport and physical activity.
EFDS’s recent research revealed that people with hearing impairments or hearing loss stated issues with communication as a major barrier in being active. This Deaf Awareness Week, sports providers are encouraged to think about the ways in which they can ensure everyone, especially deaf people or those with hearing impairments, can access all aspects of activity.
In September 2013, EFDS, the national body and charity dedicated to disabled people in sport throughout England, revealed a study into disabled people’s lifestyles and their participation in physical activity. The report highlights among the findings that people with hearing impairments or hearing loss are most likely to:
- Play alone (22%) in comparison to playing with only non-disabled people (19%) and only disabled people with a similar impairment (16%)
- Currently play sport because it is fun (69%), to get fit (69%) and improve health (63%)
- Be driven by taking part in competitions, as well as socialising and being able to meet friends
In April 2014, EFDS produced a guide to inclusive communications. Written in partnership with Big Voice Communications, it supports providers to reach a wider audience, including more disabled people.
It aims to address the main communication barriers that many people experience in sport and physical activity, which also stop disabled people from accessing some opportunities. As well as providing essential better practice guidance on planning, terminology and language, it explains the purpose of accessible formats and shows how providers can get the best from their communications.
Download the inclusive communications guide here.
UK Deaf Sport working to increase participation
EFDS works in partnership with UK Deaf Sport to encourage Deaf people to participate, enjoy and excel at sport.
Clive Breedon, National Participation Officer at UK Deaf Sport said:
As the strategic lead for deaf sport UK Deaf Sport recognise the benefit of building awareness for the deaf community that Deaf awareness week brings. The key challenge for people who are deaf or hard of hearing is the ability for all parties to communicate. The development of DEAFinitley Inclusive Sports Networks and the Effective Communication: Coaching Deaf people in Sport Course, run by SCUK aims to build the confidence of all people involved in sport to support deaf inclusion every week. This work is supported by EFDS and 12 Sports national Governing bodies as well as four developing regional networks.
For more information on where you can get involved in DEAfinitely Inclusive Sports please contact Clive Breedon participation@ukds.org.uk. Or visit their website http://www.ukdeafsport.org.uk/
Action on Hearing Loss communication tips
Action on Hearing Loss has guides on different types of hearing loss and top communication tips below:
About deafness and hearing loss
Find out about the different types and causes of deafness, how the ear works and how cochlear implants can improve people's ability to hear.
Are you having trouble communicating with friends or family? Are you finding it increasingly difficult to communicate in a noisy workplace?
Download or order information on deaf awareness
Download Action on Hearing Loss information factsheets and leaflets on deaf awareness. You can also order printed copies from their Information Line.
Contact the English Federation of Disability Sport
You can contact EFDS, using our contact us page.
