What is Deaf Health Wales?

Deaf Health Wales is a platform dedicated to improving healthcare access, mental health support, and wellbeing for Deaf individuals across Wales. We work with the Welsh Government, NHS, and key stakeholders to ensure healthcare services are inclusive, accessible, and tailored to the needs of the Deaf community.

About

Why is Deaf Health Wales important?

Deaf individuals often face barriers in accessing healthcare, including lack of BSL interpreters, miscommunication, and limited Deaf-friendly services. Our goal is to bridge this gap by advocating for better services, raising awareness, and supporting the rights and wellbeing of Deaf people across Wales.

We use the term ‘Deaf’ to include all individuals with hearing loss, such as:

Deaf (culturally Deaf BSL users)

deaf (those who have lost hearing over time)

Deafblind individuals

Hard of hearing and deafened people

Our mission is to ensure equal access to healthcare and wellbeing services for everyone within the Deaf community.

About

What are the key aims of Deaf Health Wales?

Our main aim is to achieve high-quality and effective mental health and wellbeing services for Deaf individuals in Wales. We do this by:

1

Improving healthcare services for Deaf individuals

2

Advocating for equal access to mental health and public health services

3

Raising awareness and educating healthcare providers on Deaf communication needs

4

Ensuring Deaf voices are heard in policy and decision-making

About

How does Deaf Health Wales make an impact?

We focus on three key areas:

  • Work with the Welsh Government & NHS to improve healthcare for Deaf individuals.
  • Ensure interpreting services and communication needs are met in all healthcare settings.
  • Share best practices to push for higher service standards.
  • Improve data collection on Deaf healthcare needs in Wales.
  • Work with health boards and service providers to address inequalities.
  • Raise awareness about Deaf health issues through campaigns and policy work.
  • Partner with universities, NHS bodies, and community groups to fund research.
  • Develop quality assurance processes to ensure services are effective and accessible.

How can I get involved?

We welcome healthcare professionals, policymakers, researchers, and Deaf community members to collaborate with us!