This is a vital service for many deaf blind people. There are 3 main types:
These act as the eyes and ears of a deaf blind person and help them to carry out daily tasks. They will be trained in deaf blind awareness, different deaf blind communication methods such as clear speech and the deaf blind manual alphabet, and the safe guiding of deaf blind people. Communicator Guides will normally be expected to have the appropriate qualification (Level 3-Communicating and Guiding with a Deafblind Person) and may be required to have additional skills to a high level, such as BSL and hands-on signing.
These usually work with children and adults who are born deaf blind. Acting as a mediator between the deaf blind person and the world, their role is to enable the individual to benefit from learning and social experiences, to enable effective communication and the receipt of clear information.
An interpreter trained and qualified to work with deaf blind people is a professional who acts as a communication link between the deaf blind person and other people. The interpreter will relay to the deaf blind person, in his or her preferred mode of communication and speed of reception, exactly what the other person has said and of course, the other way around.
An interpreter is independent and at no time should become involved in the conversation, other than, where necessary, to ask people to repeat or slow down in order that they and the deaf blind person can follow what is being said. It is important to ensure that they have the appropriate communication skills to suit the individual deaf blind person.
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