Hearing Loss Advocacy
“I spoke but no-one heard, I listened but heard nothing.”
Silence by Odette Tchernine
Hearing Loss Advocacy & Accessibility Talks
I deliver professional, engaging hearing-loss advocacy talks that support organisations and health professionals to align with accessibility standards while building real confidence in inclusive communication.
As a former Regional Training Officer with Royal National Institute for Deaf People, I delivered deaf awareness training across the UK to a wide range of sectors, including the MoD, the police and fire services, government organisations, and industrial workplaces. This experience allows me to tailor each session to suit clinical, organisational and operational settings.
Understand the hidden impact of hearing loss and discover simple ways to make a real difference.
I invite you to join me on a journey of discovery into the often-hidden world of hearing loss. Together, we explore the everyday realities faced by the 18 million adults in the UK affected by hearing loss, and uncover practical, achievable ways to create more inclusive and supportive environments. My talks are designed for health coaches, health professionals, and organisations committed to improving access, equity and communication.
Talk Options
1. Hearing Loss Awareness & Inclusive Communication
A practical, evidence-informed session focused on improving understanding and accessibility in professional settings.
Participants will gain:
Practical communication strategies that can be applied immediately
Greater awareness of common barriers faced by people with hearing loss - and how to reduce them
Guidance on inclusive, respectful language and professional approaches
Clear signposting to further resources and support
2. Life as a Deaf Person in a Hearing World
This talk offers a unique and personal insight into what it truly means to live with hearing loss in a world designed for hearing people.
Attendees are taken on a reflective journey through daily and historic experiences - from subtle communication breakdowns to the cumulative impact of environments, systems and attitudes that unintentionally exclude. Through lived experience and storytelling, this session builds empathy, challenges assumptions and deepens understanding of hearing loss as a lifelong, often invisible disability.
This talk is particularly powerful for organisations seeking to strengthen inclusion, compassion and person-centred practice.
Formats and Length
Short sessions (15–30 minutes): Ideal as part of a wider training day or workshop programme
Standard online talks (60 minutes): Delivered via Zoom, with a 30-minute Q&A following the main session
Each session is professional, engaging, and grounded in real-world experience, supporting attendees to move beyond awareness into meaningful, practical change.
If you’d like to learn more or explore how one of my talks could benefit you or your organisation, please get in touch to discuss your goals and requirements. Contact me.
Communication Tips
Good communication is about more than just words – it’s about connection. Whether you live with hearing loss or you’re talking with someone who does, these simple hacks make conversations easier, more inclusive, and far more enjoyable for everyone.
1. Get attention first – Make sure the other person is ready before you speak.
2. Face each other – Good eye contact and visible lips make a big difference.
3. Keep the light right – Ensure your face is well lit and avoid shadows or backlighting.
4. Cut background noise – Turn down the volume or move to a quieter spot.
5. One speaker at a time – Avoid talking over each other, especially in groups.
6. Speak clearly and naturally – No need to shout or over-enunciate.
7. Check understanding – Ask or confirm if the message was clear; don’t assume.
8. Rephrase, don’t just repeat – If something wasn’t heard, say it differently.
9. Be patient and respectful – Allow extra time; communication is a two-way effort.
10. Stay positive – Focus on connection, not perfection; it’s about understanding each other.