Is your sports club inclusive of people who are deaf or hard of hearing? Have you considered how you can make your coaching more deaf-friendly? Here is how you can make your sessions more accessible to ensure those with hearing impairments can enjoy the benefits of sport at your club.
Delivering sport is built on communication and ensuring participants can understand. There is no one size fits all approach and that is especially true of those with hearing impairments.
Shotton Town United JFC was set up in 2015 with the motto – “Every child should play.” Their coaches can use basic British Sign Language and are trained in deaf awareness to ensure children in north Wales who are deaf or hard of hearing have a place where they can play football.
So, who better to give their advice on being a deaf-friendly sports club than them? Here are Shotton Town United’s top tips to ensure you are being inclusive of participants who are deaf or hard of hearing at your sports club.
Learn how they want to communicate.
No two people are the same and that goes for those with hearing impairments, too. A participant may have a preferred way of communication when taking part in sport. Make sure the first thing you do is speak to the person to understand their needs. Never assume!
Stay in one place.
Stay in one place so participants will know where to look and where to find coaches at any time. If you move around, those with hearing difficulties will be unable to hear your voice to locate your position. Give them the confidence to know exactly where you are to seek direction.
