Engaging with Deaf people, Turi Māori, or people who have hearing loss
This page contains tips to support an effective engagement process with people who are Deaf or have hearing loss.
Some people with hearing loss identify as Deaf. Deaf culture has its own language, values, and history.
Not everyone with hearing loss uses sign language. Some use assistive listening devices like:
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- personal microphones that amplify sound
- FM systems that send sound from the speaker’s microphone directly to the listener’s hearing aid, cochlear implant, or headset.
Speaking tips
- Ask speakers to say their name before speaking because voices through a loop can sound similar.
- Make sure only one person speaks at a time. This helps everyone, including NZSL interpreters.
- Speakers should keep their mouth visible when talking, as this helps with lip reading.
- Ask people to raise their hand or give a clear visual signal when they want to speak. This gives Deaf participants an equal chance to join in.
Managing the venue setup
- Always use a microphone when a hearing loop is available.
- If you use breakout groups, consider giving people with hearing loss a separate room. Background noise from multiple groups can make it hard for them to hear.
- Offer seats near the front so people can see NZSL interpreters, body language, and lip movements.
Working with New Zealand Sign Language interpreters
Booking interpreters
- Try to book NZSL interpreters at least 4 weeks in advance. There is a shortage of interpreters, especially those who can interpret in three languages (Te Reo Māori, English, and NZSL).
- It’s unlikely a qualified trilingual interpreter will be available, but NZSL agencies may suggest alternatives.
Planning for longer or complex meetings
- For meetings longer than 1 hour, or with complex content, you will need at least 2 interpreters to take turns. Ask the agency for advice.
- Talk to interpreters about how fast presenters should speak, and whether pauses are needed for interpreter changeovers.
Preparing interpreters before the event
- Send any written material to interpreters before the event so they can prepare.
Setting up the venue
- Make sure the venue has good lighting so interpreters’ faces, hands, and body are clearly visible.
- Reserve seats opposite the interpreters for Deaf participants and ensure there are no obstacles blocking the view.
- Have someone ready to take a microphone to audience members who want to speak. Interpreters also need a microphone.
- Ask speakers to say their name before speaking.
Providing accessibility backups
- Consider live captioning or electronic note-taking as a backup. This shows the discussion on a screen for participants to read.
- Check with Deaf participants if this is acceptable, as reading captions for long periods can be tiring.
Making video content accessible
- Include captions in your videos, and if you can, add NZSL translation as well.
Working with hearing dogs
Adapted from information produced by Blind Low Vision’s guidelines for interacting with guide dogs.
- Do not distract hearing dogs. They need to focus on their job. Only interact if the handler says it’s okay—don’t look at, talk to, touch, or feed the dog.
- Ideally, the venue should include a lawn area for hearing or assistance dogs, or one should be available close enough that the handler can safely toilet their dogs.