Deaf Awareness Week is a national week of raising awareness about deafness. The week focuses on promoting the positive aspects of being deaf, encouraging social inclusion, and raising awareness of the organisations that support those who are deaf.
Why is Deaf Awareness Week important?
Deaf Awareness Week is significant because we need to increase awareness of deaf issues, and discrimination and normalise being deaf in today’s society.
Why are people deaf?
People are deaf either by genetics, due to old age, or due to other health conditions. However, some hearing impairments are more visible than others.
What are some interesting statistics about the deaf community?
Over 5% of the world's population have ‘disabled’ hearing loss or 1 in 10 people.
It's estimated by 2035, about 1 in 5 in the UK will have a hearing loss.
75% of the deaf community feel their career opportunities are limited.
Over two-thirds agree that they feel isolated because of their hearing loss.
1 in 4 deaf people have quit their job due to discrimination regarding their hearing loss.
A research study has shown 1 in 5 people would feel uncomfortable trying to communicate with a deaf person.
How could I help and support the deaf community?
Speak clearly.
Don’t talk too fast.
Don’t cover your mouth when speaking.
Be kind to people.
Be non-judgemental of people who have disabilities.
Stop underestimating the deaf society and what they are capable of.
Stop getting the deaf society to change for you.