This section outlines differences in the deaf population and deaf people's varying preferences for using sign language interpreters when accessing a service.

• Deaf people are a varied group. Some deaf people have different needs to be accommodated to ensure they effectively access information or a service.
• Check in advance to make sure you understand a person's needs as much as possible.

Some groups of deaf people have particular requirements in using sign language interpreter services. Understanding these differences will help ensure that effective communication happens and services can be accessed.

Read more about some deaf people's different needs:

You may occasionally get a request to book an electronic note-taker or captioner, or an oral interpreter.

There is a group of deaf or hearing impaired people who do not use sign language and who therefore do not benefit from having a sign language interpreter present.