Practical Ways to Make Your Business More Deaf-Friendly

Creating a Deaf-friendly business like mine isn't just inclusive—it's smart, respectful, and good client care. Whether you're working with Deaf clients, colleagues, or collaborators, a few thoughtful adjustments can make all the difference. Be like me!

Here are six easy-to-implement ideas to make your business more welcoming and accessible to the Deaf community:

✅ 1. Use Clear Written Communication

Avoid relying solely on phone calls. Offer alternatives like:

·       Email

·       Text or WhatsApp

·       Web chat or messaging apps

·       Online booking forms

Written follow-ups after video calls or meetings also help clarify details and reduce misunderstandings.

✅ 2. Add Captions to Video Content

Make all video content—social media, training videos, webinars—accessible by:

·       Adding captions (auto tools like YouTube, Instagram, or Vimeo can help)

·       Checking and correcting auto-generated captions

·       Providing transcripts for longer videos or recordings

💡 Bonus: Captioning improves engagement and accessibility for all audiences, including those watching with sound off.

✅ 3. Include Accessibility Information on Your Website

Make it clear that Deaf and hard-of-hearing clients are welcome. You can include:

·       Alternative contact methods (email, webchat)

·       Willingness to use interpreters or captioned platforms

·       A short accessibility statement

Example:

“We’re happy to arrange communication support (such as BSL interpreters or captioned video calls). Please let us know how we can support you.”

✅ 4. Book an Interpreter When You’re Inviting a Deaf Person to a Meeting

If you’re hosting a meeting, interview, or event and inviting a Deaf participant, it’s your responsibility to provide an interpreter.

You can book a qualified BSL interpreter through local interpreting agencies or national services. Look at NRCPD website www.nrcpd.org.uk/

Do not expect the Deaf person to arrange or pay for their own interpreter.

If the Deaf person has Access to Work funding, they may prefer to book their preferred interpreter—but always ask and offer first.

🎯 Tip: Ask the Deaf person what support they prefer. Not everyone uses BSL—some may prefer speech-to-text-reporting or note-taking.

✅ 5. Train Your Team in Basic Deaf Awareness

Even without learning sign language, your team can be more Deaf-aware by:

·       Facing the person while speaking

·       Avoiding shouting or over-enunciation

·       Being patient with written communication

·       Using plain, simple language

·       Asking how the person prefers to communicate

·       A short training session or guide can go a long way in creating an inclusive culture.

✅ 6. Use Visual Tools for Collaboration

If you work with Deaf clients or freelancers, visual task and communication tools help:

·       Trello or Click Up for task management

·       Zoom, Microsoft Teams, WhatsApp or email for text communication

·       Google Docs for shared notes and updates

·       Google Calendar or Microsoft Office appointment booking without back-and-forth messaging

These platforms reduce the need for spoken or real-time communication and improve clarity across the board.

🤝 Accessibility Is Everyone’s Responsibility

Creating a Deaf-friendly business is about respect, not just compliance. By taking proactive steps—like offering interpreters, using accessible platforms, and improving written communication—you create a welcoming environment that benefits everyone, Deaf or hearing.

Want to get in touch—email, WhatsApp and text messages works just fine!

carron@pasupport.co.uk       07523 061304