Deaf people in North Yorkshire highlight communication problems caused by face coverings during Covid-19
In England, people must by law wear a face covering on public transport and in shops and supermarkets as of July 24. Hospital visitors and outpatients are also expected to wear masks.
North Yorkshire Disability Forum members have been discussing the important topic of accessibility for Deaf and hearing-impaired people during the Covid response. While urging everyone to follow the appropriate guidance on face coverings and masks, Forum members would like to draw people’s attention to the fact that they can cause a barrier to communication for people who rely on lip-reading and facial expression.
This can increase isolation and make it harder to take part in everyday activities, as well as making it harder to access healthcare which can already be difficult for many people with sensory impairment.
Deaf groups, including the National Deaf Children’s Society, are recommending the use of clear face coverings/masks and visors in health, social care and community settings, where possible within the relevant PPE guidelines – click here for more information.
Support
BSL Health Access offers a free British Sign Language interpretation service for people accessing healthcare.
It is an on-demand video remote interpreting service for any public health care requirement in England, Wales and Scotland where access to BSL interpretation is not available. For many Deaf people, using the English language is not always an effective or safe and appropriate way to communicate important medical advice.
Action on Hearing Loss – communication tips for the general public
People who are Deaf or have hearing loss have individual communication needs and you should ask someone how best you can communicate with them. Not every tip below will be appropriate for every person who is Deaf or has hearing loss.
NHS 111 24/7 BSL service
Using your computer and webcam, or the InterpreterNow app on your smartphone or tablet, you make a video call to a BSL interpreter. The interpreter telephones an NHS 111 adviser and relays your conversation with them. The NHS 111 adviser will ask you questions to assess your symptoms, then give you the healthcare advice you need or direct you straightaway to the local service that can help you best.
Where possible the NHS 111 team will book you an appointment or transfer you directly to the people you need to speak to. If NHS 111 advisers think you need an ambulance they will immediately arrange one for you.
