Are We Listening? Does equality of access to mental health services for the Deaf truly exist in comparison with that of the hearing population?

The purpose of the article is to explore the comparisons and more importantly differences that exist within mental health services for the Deaf population in 3 sites. These sites are Alabama and San Diego in America and within the authors own clinical area which is Bradford in the United Kingdom. The main focus being how access to services is being achieved and what aids engagement with this client group. The paper focuses upon Deaf Clients whose primary mode of communication is that of British Sign language or American Sign Language.

Extensive data was collected from 3 sites. This included interviews with staff who worked in these areas, and clients who used these facilities. Documents and observations within these areas were critical in being able to compare and contrast the differing service provisions available.

The intended goal being to improve and implement any changes that are required  to establish mental health services that are fit for purpose and offer a culturally and clinically positive experience for Deaf clients that need to access them.

What was clear from the results was that the integration of technology that aids communication in not only clinical practice but also on a social level is paramount. It appears that improving communication through this medium is now fully embedded into clinical practice in both sites in America and this has vastly improved clients ability to not only access treatment in emergency situations but also sustain engagement in treatment regimes.

The second significant difference that existed in America was the employment of Deaf individuals into their service. There was a positive focus upon recruitment and this was demonstrated in the diversity of the work force. Of the services visited it was apparent that there was great emphasis placed upon Deaf individuals leading the Deaf services.

Communication and the ability to communicate with local mental health services has to be a priority if services are to be accessible to our local population. There needs to be some mode of communication that is readily available for clients and staff that offers increased communication.

Greater awareness should be given on working with interpreters for the Deaf and allowing opportunities for the interpreters to shadow mental health professionals in a bid to improve their own knowledge and understanding of mental health conditions.

Health promotion advice and information from the local mental health trust including the development of self-referral crisis teams needs to be disseminated in a format that is accessible to the Deaf population. This may be in the form of video clips in British Sign Language. This could be made available not only on the local trust website but also disseminated among other deaf service provisions.