Communication and language

Deaf people communicate in lots of different ways. They might use one way of communicating or a mix of different methods.

This could depend on their level of deafness, whether they have and choose to use hearing technology like implants or hearing aids, and their own preferences. 

However you like to communicate, your choices are valid and should be respected. Remember that there is no one right way to communicate as a deaf person, just the right way for you! It is different for everyone.

Different ways to communicate

Deaf people may choose to communicate in lots of ways, including sign language, speech, Sign Supported English (SSE) and lip-reading.

Click on the different options below to find out more about the ways deaf people communicate: