Deaf & Hard of Hearing Community Engagement

Deaf and Hard of Hearing residents in Newham continue to experience significant barriers when accessing health and care services. From long waits for interpreters to unreliable video relay systems and booking platforms that fail to meet accessibility needs, these challenges directly affect the quality of care and, in some cases, patient safety.

Through our engagement event, Deaf residents shared powerful experiences, including missed diagnoses, inaccessible appointment booking systems, and a lack of Deaf awareness among staff. Many highlighted how often they have to rely on family members to interpret – an arrangement that is neither fair nor inclusive.

The findings emphasise the urgent need for improved interpreter provision, better booking systems, and comprehensive Deaf awareness training for all healthcare staff. Deaf residents are clear: they want the same access and rights to healthcare as hearing people.