With WHO stating that hearing loss affects a staggering 5% of the global population, it goes without saying that an understanding of deaf inclusivity should be present in virtually any workplace.
One of the leading issues, however, is that many people assume the term ‘deaf’ only refers to one thing when, in fact, deafness can present itself in many ways. Not just in how a person hears; but in their physical balance too.
Understanding exactly what deaf discrimination is, as well as the daily workplace struggles of a deaf employee, is essential in ensuring you’re a deaf-friendly employer.
myAko’s Deaf Awareness course was developed in collaboration with deaf awareness advocate, Simon Houghton, who would be more than happy to provide your readers with his comprehensive insight into ensuring their workplace is deaf-inclusive.
As a deaf man, Simon first sought to raise awareness of the difficulties deaf employees face during the pandemic. During the various lockdowns, communication became even more of an issue – a sentiment that he found was echoed by many in the deaf community.
Now – with many settling into remote working as the ‘new normal’, but countless employers completely unaware of how they should cater to deaf employees in the office, let alone those working remotely – it’s as important as it’s ever been for deaf awareness to be spread far and wide.
