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Here you will find useful information about Deafness, Deaf people and British Sign Language

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What is the difference between deaf and Deaf?

It’s not a typo, here is a quick explanation

Click for tips

12 tips for communicating with Deaf patients?

Communication barriers are the #1 reason Deaf people have had poorer health

Click for answers

Who uses British Sign Language (BSL)?

70,000 people in the UK, maybe you should too

Deaf Awareness Poster

Print and post to raise awareness and improve communication.

Deafness in the UK

Approximately 70,000 people in the UK are born profoundly deaf or become Deaf before they can speak. Being Deaf has a significant impact on our ability to navigate a society and healthcare system designed by and for hearing people.

Becoming more deaf aware can make a big difference and helps remove barriers that impact our health and wellbeing.

Courses are also available for individuals and businesses on the Get Deaf Aware website.

Watch the video below to see what Deaf people experience when attempting to access healthcare. What would you do in this situation?

Deaf people have a legal right to access healthcare and have their communication needs met. 

This video was made in 2010 by SignHealth and the NHS Deaf Children, Young People and Family Service (National Deaf CAMHS).  Produced by Mutt & Jeff Pictures.

About SignHealth

We work to improve the health and wellbeing of Deaf people in the UK.

We provide care homes and outreach services for Deaf people with long-term mental health problems and other complex needs. Our homes operate entirely in sign language. We also run a Psychological Therapies service, offering therapy conducted in BSL. In addition we run the UK’s only Domestic Abuse support service for Deaf people and our advocacy team help Deaf people understand and protect their rights.

Consider supporting us

Donations are a vital and easy way you can support SignHealth. Funds raised support our campaigns, communications and research initiatives, as well as enabling us to expand our services.

We also invite you to follow us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to get updates on our campaigns, appeals and ways to get involved.

Follow us

You can help by connecting with us on social media and sharing information to improve Deaf people’s health and wellbeing.