Things you didn’t know about Deafness

At Deaf Umbrella, we believe that awareness is the first step towards true inclusion. While Deaf people have always been here — teaching, working, creating, parenting, and succeeding— society still holds many outdated or simplified ideas about what deafness is.

So, let’s set the record straight with a few things you might not know about deafness (but should).

1. Deafness isn’t one single experience

There is no universal “deaf experience.” Some people are born Deaf; others become deaf later in life due to illness, age, noise exposure, or other causes. Some use sign language, others don’t. Some identify as part of the Deaf community, others don’t. Deafness exists on a spectrum — and that diversity deserves to be recognised and respected.

2. British Sign Language (BSL) is its own language

BSL is not “signed English.” It has its own grammar, structure, vocabulary, and even dialects depending on region and age group. It’s a fully developed language in its own right — rich, expressive, and beautiful to watch.

3. Not every Deaf person wears hearing aids or implants

And no, these devices don’t “cure” deafness. Hearing aids and cochlear implants support access to sound, but their effectiveness varies from person to person. Choosing whether or not to use them is a personal decision — and either choice is valid.

4. Lipreading isn’t easy (and it’s not a reliable form of communication)

Despite how it’s portrayed on TV, lipreading is extremely difficult. Many speech sounds look identical on the lips, and without context or visual cues, it’s nearly impossible to follow along. It’s mentally exhausting, and often only a small part of the communication puzzle.

5. Music isn't just heard — it's experienced

There’s a common misconception that Deaf people don’t enjoy music — but that couldn’t be further from the truth. While sound may not be accessible in the traditional sense, music can still be experienced through rhythm, vibration, movement, and visual performance. Bass-heavy beats, live signed songs, and even the vibrations felt through the floor at a gig can all bring music to life in different ways. Deaf artists and performers have been reimagining musical expression for years — and audiences are finally starting to catch up.

Curious about how Deaf people dance without hearing the music? We’ve written a whole article about that!👉 Read it here

6. Phone calls aren’t the only way to communicate

If you’re used to making quick phone calls on the go, it might surprise you to learn that many Deaf people don’t use voice calls at all. But that doesn’t mean they’re cut off from communication — far from it. Video calls in BSL, messaging apps, captioned calls, and relay services all offer alternative ways to stay in touch. The key is flexibility and choice.

Technology has opened up communication like never before — but assuming phone calls are the “default” often leaves Deaf people out of the conversation.

Understanding the facts around deafness helps break down barriers. It challenges assumptions, builds empathy, and opens the door to better access, communication, and inclusion.

So the next time someone mentions deafness, you’ll have more than a few facts to share — and that’s how change begins.

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