Yellow cards assist communication with hearing impaired people

Businesses all around the country are showing their support for deaf and hearing impaired people by putting bright yellow cards on their counters and reception desks.

These cards, which have been developed by The National Foundation for the Deaf, help people with hearing impairments and the person behind the counter to communicate effectively.

So far over 3,000 cards in their plastic holders have been distributed in the Auckland and Northland regions thanks to support from the ASB Community Trust and Youthtown. Over 7,000 more are available free of charge to businesses in these regions.

“We aim to break down barriers and these cards provide clear, concise information on how to communicate with a hearing-impaired person,” says Louise Carroll, CEO of The National Foundation for the Deaf.

“This is something that we can all benefit from and we want to see them on display at every public reception and counter in the country.”

The yellow card is a gentle reminder to the hearing impaired person at the counter that they may wish to advise the shop assistant or receptionist that they do have trouble hearing, allowing the person they are speaking with to support effective communication.

On the back of the yellow card the following points are listed giving sound advice to the receptionist or shop teller:

•  face the person who is hearing impaired
•  speak clearly
•  speak slower
•  not to shout
•  if necessary write down the points they are trying to make.

These cards can be useful for retail shops, banks, garden centres, optometrists, medical centres and office reception areas. If you would like some for your workplace, please contact The National Foundation for the Deaf on 09 307 2922