Supporting Hearing Impaired Staff and Students

In a survey in summer 2024, 2 out of every 3 of people with hearing difficulties stated they have experienced discrimination or negative attitudes from the general public.

In England, approximately nine million people experience hearing loss, with over four million of them being of working age. This represents a substantial group of individuals who are both capable and eager to work. However, hearing loss often affects their employment prospects, leading to job loss and challenges in securing new positions.

People with hearing loss frequently encounter feelings of isolation in the workplace. This can hinder their ability to reach their full potential and, in some cases, compel them to leave their jobs. Such outcomes not only impact the individuals but also affect businesses, which risk losing talented employees and incurring the costs associated with recruiting and training replacements.

Fortunately, with appropriate workplace adjustments and support from employers, hearing loss need not be a barrier. By creating an inclusive environment and providing necessary accommodations, businesses can retain skilled workers, boost productivity, and help individuals with hearing loss thrive professionally.

• Position of pupils in class (facing the teacher);

• Reduction of background noise

• Thick carpeting on classroom floor;

• Good lighting in the classroom;

• Adapted classroom with mic and speaker system (to hear the pitch of children’s voices);

• Information in advance of meetings, training and induction;

• Portable induction loops;

• Adapted phone;

• Support from lip speakers; and

• IT or other equipment to support communication.

These tips can help to create an inclusive learning environment where deaf students can thrive academically and socially. Thoughtful adjustments and clear communication will help support their success.

For individuals with hearing loss, the effects on employment are significant, both in applying for jobs and maintaining positions. Research into the experiences of workers with hearing loss revealed the following:

• Employment Opportunities: Nearly three-quarters (74%) of respondents felt that their hearing loss limited their job prospects;

• Workplace Potential: 70% agreed that hearing loss occasionally prevented them from achieving their full potential at work;

• Isolation: Just over two-thirds (68%) reported sometimes feeling isolated in their workplace due to hearing loss: and

• Early Retirement: Two-fifths (41%) retired early as a result of the challenges posed by hearing loss and workplace communication difficulties.

Many individuals with hearing loss choose not to disclose their condition on job applications, fearing that it may reduce their chances of being shortlisted for interviews. This reluctance contributes to the disparity in employment rates: 65% for those with hearing loss compared to 79% for individuals without long-term health conditions or disabilities.

This employment gap not only affects the financial well-being of individuals with hearing loss but also has broader implications for the economy. Addressing these barriers is essential for fostering equality and unlocking the potential of a significant portion of the workforce.

Adjustments for Staff

Supporting a Deaf Student in Your Class

• Seat the student near the front of the class to ensure they can clearly see your face, the board, and any visual aids;

• Hearing aids work best within 1 to 2 metres of the speaker;

• Position the student so their better ear faces the main speaker; and

• During group work or discussions, arrange seating in a circle or centrally to help the student see as many faces as possible.

Seating Position

The Personal Impact

Position Yourself Thoughtfully

• Ensure the classroom is well-lit so the student can see and hear you easily;

• Teach from the front as much as possible; avoid moving while speaking; and

• Refrain from talking while writing on the board or standing in front of a window, as shadows can obscure your face.

Reduce Background Noise

• Hearing aids amplify all sounds, including background noise, which can make listening challenging;

• Minimize noise during instruction by ensuring the class is quiet while you speak; and

• Position the student away from ambient noise sources, such as projectors, heaters, or computers.

Using a Radio Aid

• If the student has a radio aid, wear the microphone provided when the student hands it to you;

• Position the microphone a hand span away from your mouth, adjusting the cord accordingly;

• Discreetly ask for the microphone if the student does not offer it; and

• Use the mute button when leaving the room to prevent conversations from being overheard.

Supporting Class Discussions

• Many deaf students struggle to hear quiet voices or contributions from the back of the room; and

• Repeat or summarize other students’ comments while standing at the front and using the microphone.

Visual Backup

• Use visual aids to reinforce verbal information, which aids in understanding new concepts and vocabulary;

• Write keywords, lesson outlines, and homework on the board to ensure no important details are missed; and

• Incorporate diagrams, pictures, objects, and other visual elements into lessons to enhance comprehension.

Break and Lunchtime

• Social times can be stressful due to high background noise. Many deaf students find these moments more demanding than lessons; and

• While providing a quiet social space may not always be practical, be mindful that the student may feel more fatigued than their peers as the day progresses.

Homework Instructions

• Avoid assigning homework at the end of lessons when noise levels increase as students pack up;

• If homework must be given at the end of class, ensure the room is quiet; and

• Write homework instructions on the board to provide visual reinforcement of the task.

RESOURCES

British Deaf Association

National Deaf Children's Society

NHS: What Works: Hearing Loss and Employment