8 Tips for Fostering an Inclusive Environment

Deaf Awareness Week is an opportunity to focus on the importance of inclusion and accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. A recent survey by the Royal Association for Deaf People (RAD) highlights a lack of awareness among employers, revealing that 63% of deaf employees reported not being given equal opportunities at work and 83% felt excluded from conversations with colleagues. With the theme of “Deaf Inclusion,” we want to share eight essential tips to help you create a more inclusive environment for deaf employees in your workplace.

1) Accommodate Phone Communication Needs:

Some deaf people can understand speech over the phone, but they may need a phone that amplifies sound or a headset that works with their hearing aids. Make sure your workplace provides accessible options for phone communication.

2) Offer a Quiet Workspace:

Background noise can be challenging for deaf employees who use hearing aids or cochlear implants. Providing a quieter area to work can make a big difference in their ability to focus and be productive.

3) Ensure Clear Visibility of Faces:

For effective communication, make sure your face is visible. This is particularly important for deaf or partially deaf employees who rely on lip-reading to understand speech.

4) Encourage One-at-a-Time Speaking:

During group discussions, encourage everyone to speak one at a time. This helps deaf employees who rely on lip-reading to follow the conversation more easily.

5) Share Information in Advance:

Provide an agenda in advance of meetings and keep presentation slides minimal. Pause for reading, and ensure videos include captions for better accessibility.

6) Adapt Communication Strategies:

Make communication easier for deaf colleagues by slowing down the pace, using visual aids, and taking regular breaks during discussions to avoid mental exhaustion.

7) Promote Social Inclusion:

Belonging at work is important, and socialising plays a significant role in that. Include deaf colleagues in conversations and events, ensuring that they are accessible and accommodating regardless of communication needs.

8) Support Accessible Digital Meetings:

Digital meetings can create barriers for deaf employees. Ask deaf staff or volunteers about their communication support needs and collaborate on incorporating them into the meeting.

Summary

Deaf inclusion in the workplace is essential for fostering a diverse and supportive environment. By implementing these eight tips, you can contribute to a more inclusive atmosphere that values the talents and contributions of all employees, regardless of their hearing abilities.

Let’s celebrate Deaf Awareness Week by embracing inclusion and working together to create a better workplace for everyone.