Deaf Awareness Week in 2026 took place from May 4th to May 10th

Here’s a polished, up‑to‑date rewrite that keeps your meaning but strengthens clarity, flow, and impact. I’ve also aligned the opening with the most current framing used by RNID for Deaf Awareness Week.

Deaf Awareness Week exists to increase public understanding of Deaf issues, people, and culture. It highlights the positive aspects of deafness, promotes social inclusion, and raises awareness of the organisations—locally, nationally, and globally—that support Deaf people.
(Source: RNID – Deaf Awareness)

We can all play a part in making Capel a Deaf‑Friendly Space. Here are some practical tips for being more Deaf aware:

• Face the person you’re speaking to and avoid turning away
• Repeat yourself if needed
• Keep your mouth visible
• Don’t speak too quickly or too slowly
• Take turns when speaking—avoid talking over others
• Write things down or draw a quick sketch if it helps
• Reduce background noise or move to a quieter space
• Use simple gestures; point or demonstrate where helpful
• Learn some basic BSL
• Be patient—if someone doesn’t understand you, don’t give up

At NDC, we celebrate and honour the diverse identities within our communities. We recognise that everyone’s experiences and journeys are different, and this is reflected in the data, resources, and work we produce. Wherever possible, we highlight differences by gender, disability, race, and ethnicity in our reports and materials. By recognising these differences, we support every path towards #DeafSuccess.

Colleagues from across the National Deaf Children’s Society—both Deaf and hearing—share their own deaf awareness tips for working together and creating inclusive spaces.

  Want to learn more, watch this video: