Health Trust Apologises for Lack of Communication Support for Deaf Couple
A health trust in Northern Ireland has issued an apology to a deaf couple following a distressing experience at a hospital where staff demonstrated a lack of understanding regarding the need for a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter. The incident highlighted significant communication barriers faced by those who are deaf in healthcare settings.
Incident at Causeway Hospital
Colleen Agnew’s husband required urgent medical attention after experiencing breathing difficulties at their home in Kilrea, County Londonderry. Prior to their arrival at Causeway Hospital, the couple’s son informed staff about their communication needs. However, Mrs Agnew reported that this crucial information was not recognised when they reached the hospital.
Trust’s Apology and Future Measures
The Northern Trust has expressed regret for the “distress caused” and stated that it regularly provides training on booking BSL interpreters to its staff. In light of this incident, a review will be conducted to reinforce awareness regarding communication needs for deaf patients.
As part of their commitment to improving services, the trust has introduced lanyards for patients to indicate when they need additional communication support.
Lack of Understanding and Support
For Mrs Agnew, BSL is her primary language. Upon arriving at the hospital, she attempted to request an interpreter using her phone but encountered confusion from the receptionist, who asked, “What is a BSL interpreter?” This left the couple feeling anxious and unsupported during a critical time.
Mrs Agnew pointed out that although the hospital displayed information regarding interpreters for various spoken languages, there were no resources available for BSL. Without an interpreter, the couple spent two anxious hours waiting, ultimately forcing Mrs Agnew to arrange for one using her own contacts.
Communication Challenges for Deaf Individuals
The ability to access effective communication services is essential, especially in urgent health situations. Estimates suggest that there are varying numbers of BSL users in Northern Ireland, with a 2020 study indicating around 18,000 individuals may communicate using either BSL or Irish Sign Language. However, the Department of Health’s estimates place this figure closer to 8,000.
In an age where digital communication methods are becoming more prevalent, deaf individuals still face challenges in accessing emergency services. Mrs Agnew explained that she had previously encountered difficulties using the 999 BSL app designed to connect deaf users with interpreters during emergencies. The app reportedly experienced technical problems during her attempts to use it.
Calls for Systemic Change
The Agnew family has joined others in advocating for enhanced training for healthcare staff alongside improved protocols for booking interpreters. They also believe that incorporating basic sign language education into school curriculums could help foster better understanding and support for deaf individuals.
Community Perspectives
Seana Taylor, a representative from Foyle Deaf Association, noted that many children of deaf adults (CODAs) often have similar stories filled with frustration related to the healthcare system. She recounted her own experience when her mother required surgery, highlighting the continued difficulties in securing interpreter services through hospitals.
While acknowledging the challenges, she also noted that there is ongoing positive work aimed at improving the situation for deaf individuals within healthcare settings. Taylor emphasised the necessity for staff to understand the processes and ensure adequate training is provided.
Background
The incident shines a light on systemic issues faced by the deaf community in accessing essential services. With the NHS carrying a legal obligation to ensure equitable access for all patients—including the provision of interpreters—the Agnew family’s experience underscores the pressing need for reform to enhance accessibility for deaf individuals across all healthcare facilities.
