Deafblind people may use a number of different communication methods:

• Sign languages such as
  
  
• British Sign Language
• Sign Supported English (SSE) - English supported by signs borrowed from BSL
• Paget Gorman Signed Speech
  or
  
• Makaton
  
  Deafblind people may use one of the following methods of receiving the sign: visual frame signing or close signing, hands-on signing.
  
  
• Block: this involves using the forefinger to trace out capital letters on a deafblind person's palm.
  
  
• Deafblind Manual Alphabet: The Deafblind Manual Alphabet is made by one person onto the  deafblind person's hand. It is similar to the BSL finger-spelling alphabet and is easy to learn as a way of 'talking to' but less easy to learn to be 'talked to'.
  
  
• Computer Aided Transcription (CAT): also known as Keyboard Interpreter. The text is displayed on a screen with magnification appropriate to the individual, or a braille display.  
  
  
• Lip speaking: Lipspeakers are trained professionals who repeat what a hearing person or speaker is saying, without using their voice. They produce clearly the shape of words, the flow, rhythm and phrasing of natural speech, and repeat the stress used by the speaker. Lipspeakers also use facial expression, natural gesture and fingerspelling.  
  
  
• Objects of reference: 'Objects of reference' is a term to describe the use of objects as a means of communication.
  
  
• Clear speech
  
  
• Note writing
  
  
• Individual's own personal signs
  
  
• Large print
  
  
• Braille: Braille is a tactile method of reading and writing
  
  
• Moon: Moon is a simple tactile alphabet, similar to the Roman alphabet that needs less sensitivity in the finger than Braille.
  
  
• Computer text file
  
  
• Audiotape
  
  
• Videotape: videos in sign language can provide accessible reviewable information to people who sign.
  
  
• A combination of any of the above.
  

For some, only person-to-person communication, for example by hands-on sign or deafblind manual, will be effective.

The Department of Health's Social Care For Deafblind Children And Adults Guidance makes it clear that in these cases, local authorities must ensure that the necessary information is provided in this way.