Listening Well: Deaf Awareness Week
Deafness is more common than you might think. Official statistics show that one in three adults in the UK is deaf, hard of hearing or has tinnitus, and around 2.4 million people struggle to hear most everyday conversation. The person sitting next to you in church may well be coping with hearing loss, even if it isn’t obvious. Worldwide, around 1.5 billion people live with hearing loss, and Deaf Awareness Week (5–11 May) invites us to recognise their experiences and celebrate the richness of deaf culture.
The British Deaf Association reminds us that no deaf person should feel alone, misunderstood or disconnected. Their Loss to Found campaign encourages us to see deafness not simply as “loss”, but also as deaf gain – a source of identity, community and pride. As a church family, we want St Giles’ and St George’s to be places where deaf and hard‑of‑hearing people feel fully welcomed, included and able to participate in worship and community life. Both our churches are fitted with hearing loops to support those who use hearing aids.
One local deaf British Sign Language user shared how much he appreciates having interpreters at special services such as Christmas, Easter and Harvest Festival. He also reminded us that deaf and hard‑of‑hearing people are not all the same, and that if you are unsure, it is always fine to ask how someone prefers to communicate.
Lipreading is a very difficult skill. When speaking with someone who relies on it, keep eye contact, speak normally and avoid covering your mouth, exaggerating lip movements or chewing gum. During group prayer, please avoid lowering your head or speaking quietly, as this can make hearing and lipreading impossible for those already struggling in a noisy environment.
A warm smile and friendly body language always help to make people feel welcome. When communication is tricky, writing a message down or typing on a phone can be a simple and effective way to help everyone feel included. Deaf Awareness Week encourages us to reflect on how we listen, communicate and create church spaces where everyone—regardless of hearing ability—can encounter God, build relationships and truly feel at home.
A special thanks to Roma Rennie; Retired BSL Interpreter, Member of the Christian Interpreter Network. To discover more about Deaf Awareness Week click HERE.