SignHealth

About

The Deaf Health Charity SignHealth logo

SignHealth works to improve the health and wellbeing of people who are deaf.

What we do

We provide some services directly in British Sign Language (BSL), we work in partnership with the NHS and we also campaign for change.  We have a range of projects, services and campaigns, all aimed at improving the health of deaf people. 

Our work is varied and aims to give deaf people easier access to healthcare and information, as well as providing services which are not provided elsewhere. Some of our work is funded on a case by case basis by the NHS, and some is funded entirely by grants from trusts, or by donations from people.

Our projects and services

BSL Healthy Minds

Therapy for deaf people with depression, anxiety or similar disorders. Sessions are carried out entirely in sign language, with a therapist who is fluent in sign. It means there is no interpreter in the room, which would slow down communication and reduce the intimacy which is important to this kind of treatment.

Advocacy

SignHealth’s advocacy service helps deaf people to understand the complex dealings of government departments and the legal system. For many sign language users English is a second language, and deaf people can struggle to understand complex documents and ideas which are written in English. Advocates help deaf people to understand what is happening, and the choices they have. It does not give advice on which choice a deaf person should make.

Outreach

Our outreach service helps vulnerable deaf people to cope with the challenges of everyday life. Workers visit the deaf people they help where ever they’re needed, often that’s in the homes of the elderly or infirm. Getting clients involved in clubs and societies is another way we help, because reducing isolation improves health and wellbeing.

Care homes and supported housing

Our care homes for deaf people with complex and long term mental health problems are how SignHealth first began, and they are still a hugely important part of our service. All the residents and staff are sign language users, which helps to end the isolation which is a major cause of mental health problems for deaf people.

Campaigns

Campaigning is an important part of our work, trying to change the way things are done so deaf people get an equivalent service to hearing people. 

Who to contact

Telephone
020 3947 2600 020 3947 2600
E-mail
info@signhealth.org.uk
Website(s)

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