Did you know that 56% of deaf people have experienced discrimination in the workplace due to being deaf or hard of hearing?:
62% from colleagues
53% from management
37% during a job interview
Notwithstanding this, it has been confirmed that deaf employees are actually average or above average when performance, quality and quantity of work, flexibility and attendance are analysed and taken into account. We find these statistics absolutely unacceptable and frankly more than a little embarrassing... Don't you agree?
Not all employers recognize the potential benefits of hiring deaf workers... Deaf workers, where they are given the opportunity, are committed and engaged; the only thing they need is the right level of appropriate support, the correct tools for the job and encouragement to perform to their full potential and be productive in their chosen field.
It is not difficult to see that this would provide mutual benefits and enrichment within the workplace. Employers would receive higher productivity and employees would feel valued and appreciated and they will go above and beyond for the company. Most importantly, staff will be happier in their roles.
There are plenty of different ways that employers can support deaf staff in their working environment, but they generally fall into three main groups:
Physical assistive technology
Psychological environment
Training and monitoring of employees
PHYSICAL ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
By making use of assistive technology, Apps and online tools, disabled employees will be able to carry out their job responsibilities without impediments.
The Government grant scheme "Access to Work" (AtW) can pay for support and equipment in the workplace such as:
- Hearing aids
- Specialist products (listening equipment, hearing loops, flashing-light fire alarms, amplified telephones and textphones...)
- Communication support services to help the deaf employees to communicate in meetings, take notes at work or answer the phone.
Ask for a workplace assessment; a specialist will visit you at work to assess what simple adjustments, equipment and support could be beneficial (Read More here).
Remember, ATW is FREE to the employer!
Here at Deaf Umbrella we are working in partnership with Contacta, a company that creates, deliver and support innovative assistive technology solutions that enhance the quality of life.
Their hearing loops, infrared and radio frequency systems create accessible and inclusive environments for people with hearing loss (Read More).
There is a discount available on your first order with Contacta.
TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES
Investing in Training and Deaf Awareness is vital. Staff members should receive all necessary training and it’s so important that all staff know how they can support their deaf colleague(s).
Find out more information about the variety of Deaf Awareness courses to help the workplace become inclusive of people with hearing loss.
PSYCHOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
There are different and essential elements to develop a calm, happy and successful workplace such as:
TRUST. Trust establishes a more engaged workforce and also a higher productivity rates.
COMMUNICATION. Good communication develops positive and long lasting employee morale and will establish a deeper sense of loyalty to the organization.
WELL-BEING. Being concerned for staff well-being is not a costly endeavour! 15 minute breaks instead of 10, small incentive programs or comfortable environments in which to take breaks are all good examples!
RESPECT and the friendly attitude that comes from Deaf Awareness Training Sessions are the key to a successful work environment.
Regularly RECOGNITION/REWARD for good work is always a great thing to keep staff motivated, and a good way to know what motivates each member of the team is to have a staff suggestion box :)
INTERNAL PROMOTIONS in order to motivate staff and to avoid making them feel trapped in a dead-end job.
This is fact, not fiction folks! We think all these elements and ways to support a deaf employee are easy and completely achievable for you as an employer. These tips do not just support your deaf employees, but also benefit the whole staff!
Do you accept your next challenge?
Go a step further. Be great. Be the best!
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