Whether you are Deaf, deaf or hard of hearing, there is support available to help you access information, services and live life fully.
Information and advice
Hearing loss can affect people of all ages and in many different ways. Some people are born Deaf, while others develop hearing loss gradually or suddenly later in life. There is a wide range of experiences and identities within the Deaf and deaf community – from British Sign Language (BSL) users to people who rely on lipreading or hearing aids.
Understanding your hearing needs and knowing what support is available can help you stay connected, independent and informed. This page outlines different types of hearing loss, common barriers and what help is available to support communication and inclusion.
Hearing loss can range from mild to profound and may affect one or both ears.
There are many ways to support communication.
Many Deaf people use BSL as their first language and are part of a cultural and linguistic community.
You have the right to access services in ways that work for you.
We are not a crisis service.
If you feel you might harm yourself or are in immediate danger, call 999.
Information and support for people who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
This video explores the experiences of Deaf people and how they navigate the world using British Sign Language.
Information on your rights to communication support.
Need someone to listen right now? Our peer-support line offers friendly, trained listeners by phone or video.
Person-centred counselling for Disabled and Deaf people, delivered online or in fully accessible rooms in Exeter.
‘Deaf’ with a capital D usually refers to people who use BSL and identify as part of the Deaf community. ‘deaf’ refers more generally to people with hearing loss.
If you and your counsellor feel extra support would help, we’ll discuss options such as a second block or referral to another service.
Yes. British Sign Language is a legally recognised language in the UK.
Technology includes hearing aids, cochlear implants, vibrating alerts and smartphone apps that convert speech to text.