Learning a few signs is a pretty good place to start.

Cork Deaf Association is calling on people across the city and county to get involved in International Week of Deaf People, with a new initiative aiming to make communities across Munster more inclusive.

Taking place from September 21st to 27th, International Week of Deaf People is a chance to celebrate Deaf Culture and the Deaf Community, while highlighting the experiences, rights and contributions of Deaf people.

And Cork Deaf Association wants everyone to get involved – whether that means learning a few signs, heading along to a Deaf Community event or simply brushing up on Deaf Awareness.

Cork Deaf Association Advocacy Officer and Lead Trainer, Susan O’Callaghan is a member of the Deaf Community herself and brings lived experience and 25 years of training experience to her training programmes.

Susan is encouraging everyone in Cork to celebrate International Week of Deaf People and take a few simple steps towards becoming more Deaf and Hard of Hearing aware:

• Face the person when speaking and keep your mouth visible
• Get someone’s attention before you start talking
• Speak clearly and naturally, without shouting or exaggerating
• Reduce background noise where possible
• Ask what communication works for them rather than making assumptions

The organisation has also received funding through Rethink Ireland’s Impact Fund, allowing it to provide free Deaf and Hard of Hearing Awareness training to community and voluntary organisations throughout Munster.

The funding will also support the development of a new online Deaf Awareness training platform, making it easier for organisations and individuals to learn how to communicate more accessibly.

If you, your workplace, community group or organisation would like to learn more about Deaf Awareness or Irish Sign Language training, contact Cork Deaf Association at courses@corkdeaf.ie.