Helpful resources

We have provided below a collection of what we hope will be found to be useful resources for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, or for those who care for or support them. If there is something you would like us to provide which is not here, please get in touch.

Some simple tips for good communication

1) Let your face be seen

Make sure you are facing the light and no more than 6 feet away from someone.

2) Don't cover your mouth

Avoid smoking, eating or putting your hand in front of your mouth/face.

3) Speak slowly and clearly

Speak a little slower or louder but don't shout or exaggerate your speech - this makes lip reading much more difficult.

4) Rephrase or write things down

Some words and phrases may be harder to lip-read than others, so try using different words or write down the main points.

5) Be patient

Check you are being understood as you go along and don't be rushed. The more relaxed you are, the better you will be understood, and understand.

6) Avoid background noise

Background noise can interfere with the effectiveness or a hearing aid.

Download a one page leaflet which explains these tips in more detail.

 

The finger spelling alphabet

The alphabet shown below is produced by Deaf Direct.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Download a larger version of the image above

Download an alternative document showing the Finger Spelling Alphabet (document produced by Action on Hearing Loss)

Loop System information

A loop system consists of one or more microphones and a small amplifier which acts as a transmitter to an 'aerial' or loop of wire which is placed around the outside of the area to be covered (e.g. fastened to the wall of the nave and chancel). The signal which is transmitted by this loop is picked up by each person's hearing aid when switched to the 'T' position, and the hearer then hears the sound exactly as it is heard at source, without any extraneous noises from elsewhere.

You can download a brief guide to loop systems here which explains the process for installation, helpful tips, things to consider and details of some firms who may be able to undertake the work for you.

Statistics

You may find these statistics interesting:

1 in 6 people have hearing impairment.

1 in 3 over 60 have significant hearing loss.

2 in 3 over 70 have significant hearing loss.

1 in 1000 are born deaf or become deaf in their first 18 months of life.

1 in 500 are deafened and therefore have lost all useful hearing.

Although in recent years cochlea implants have been used for most deaf people from an early age, the “sound” produced is not the same as that for hearing people and requires considerable adaption. About 1 in 200 people will not benefit from a cochlea implant at all.

Other organisations supporting the deaf and hard of hearing

Action on Hearing Loss

Oxfordshire Deaf Children's Society

British Deaf Association

Sign Health

Handy Voices - a mixed group of deaf and hearing signers in a singing choir.