This Deaf Awareness Week you may be asking – what is deaf awareness? Its about ‘promoting the positive aspects of deafness’, to ‘promote social inclusion’ and raise awareness to all the organisations that support the week.
Most importantly its about helping people that are deaf. When asked what deaf awareness meant for them, one person said: ‘I want my family to include me in their conversations.’ This really got to me and emphasised how important this is to tackle.
Do you know that 15% of the population are deaf to some extent? Out of every 10,000 people, ten will be extremely deaf and 100 will be partially deaf.
I couldn’t help but notice one really interesting quote on the deaf awareness website that says: “Being deaf is about experiencing the world visually.”
Scientific studies have shown that being deaf can actually enhance your sight – why? Because they have to over-compensate with this part of their senses because they can’t hear.
The theme for the awareness week in 2017 is ‘A celebration’ and there will be lots of events taking place: information days, exhibitions, talks and captioned theatrical performances.
The week is supported by more than one hundred charities and organisations – and now all they need is your support!
To stay updated with everything that’s going on this year keep checking back on the Deaf Awareness Week website. And, if you’re thinking of planning your own event, you find lots of great ideas.
By taking part you will be participating in all the small changes you need to make. At work directly face the person you are talking to and send them email notes of meetings. These little things can make all the difference.