SOUTH of Scotland MSP Emma Harper and Dumfries and Galloway MP Richard Arkless joined their staff teams for Deaf Awareness Training held at their constituency office in Dumfries. Lorna Argente from Dumfries and Galloway Hard of Hearing Group delivered the training to Ms Harper and her staff team, to highlight the issues faced by the deaf community and address ways in which to support deaf people.
The training looked at the causes and types of deafness, how to communicate effectively and breaking down barriers faced by deaf people, specifically isolation, stigma and a lack of understanding of deafness within society.
Commenting, Emma Harper said:
“Looking at the importance of raising deaf awareness, the Scottish Government has identified a gap in sensory loss training in care professionals which is a real issue for the elderly population. With 70% of those over 70 and 1 million people in Scotland living with some level of hearing loss, it is an issue that we should all be more aware of.
“Having completed the training provided by Dumfries and Galloway Hard of Hearing Group, myself and my staff team now have a much better understanding of the issues deaf people face, and by being deaf aware I’m certain we will be able to support those we work with better.”
Richard Arkless added:
“Deafness can often be a very hidden disability so being ‘deaf aware’ is extremely important – I was delighted to be able to attend this very important training session.
“As an MP with a team who face the public, it is essential that we can all communicate effectively with all of my constituents. This training session has certainly kept the needs of those with hearing loss at the forefront of all our minds.”
“I would encourage anyone works directly with members of the public to seek out deaf awareness training as it is freely available to businesses and organisations across the region.”
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