Service announced to help deaf people in legal discussions

Oct 24, 2012 in Hearing Aids

Service announced to help deaf people in legal discussions

It's not just everyday conversation that is affected by hearing loss. Important decisions and agreements can also be put at risk of jeopardy through not hearing everything properly.

Indeed, contracts and statutes have now become much more commonplace thanks to the rise of mobile phone, internet and utilities deals.

That's why it is imperative that those who wear hearing aids, and other similar devices, are fully aware of what they are agreeing to.

Imagine not picking up on one small detail and then being locked into a lengthy contract, it could spell financial disaster, as well as knocking back your confidence to cope in life with hearing loss.

It's one of the main reasons why a national deaf healthcare charity has rolled out a new scheme, which offers solicitors the opportunity to use its British Sign Language (BSL) course.

SignHealth will provide assistance for solicitors with deaf clients to understand their needs and also how best to guide them through what is often a complex legal process.

As well as helping the solicitors, it will prove a lifeline for deaf people as it will reduce any confusion or grey areas in what is obviously an important area of life.

Steve Powell, SignHealth's chief executive, explained that the scheme would help level the playing field in terms of law and legality issues, with deaf people likely to see a real benefit.

Elaine Moloney, a solicitor at Robert Lizar, said the service had proved useful for both herself and her clients.

"The knowledge and expertise of the SignHealth advocate is of the highest standard and very much value for money," she said.

“They have enabled me to build an excellent rapport and a strong relationship of mutual trust and confidence with my deaf clients that would not have been possible without their assistance."

It's important that you are well in tune with your hearing aid prior to important meetings and discussions.

After all, you wouldn't want to miss out on hearing any all important details, would you?