Deaf Umbrella

11/06/2026

Oh, it's already been interpreted, my friend...⁠👀
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Be aware: The Sign Language Interpreter must interpret everything that is said and everything that they hear, including background noises 🧐. And they voice everything that is signed.⁠
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Please, avoid to say "Oh! please, don't interpret that!" or ask the interpreter to refrain from interpreting some of what you say or ask.⁠
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There are certain rules and expectations when people work with a Sign Language Interpreter.⁠
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If you want to get a basic guidelines to follow to make the interaction easy and mistake free, click the link: https://www.deafumbrella.com/post/is-your-first-time-working-with-a-sign-language-interpeter-let-s-make-it-easy

10/06/2026

The best workplaces aren’t the ones that “never get it wrong”.
They’re the ones willing to learn.

We’ve seen employers go from:
“We’re nervous about this…”
to
“We can’t imagine the team without them.”

Sometimes all people need is the right support and someone to guide them through the process.

That’s what we do every day at Deaf Umbrella.

📩 Need help with Access to Work or Deaf workplace support?
We’re here: https://www.deafumbrella.com/support-employers

10/06/2026

Simple classroom adjustments make a real difference for Deaf students. Here’s a quick checklist we recommend: clear visual timetables, front-row seating, captioned videos, regular check-ins, and consistent use of British Sign Language (BSL)/Communication Support Workers (CSWs).

“Deaf Umbrella’s training transformed our classrooms. Engagement, attendance and attainment all improved,” says a college partner who trusts our approach.

We offer deaf awareness training and communication support that delivers measurable results. Find out more: https://www.deafumbrella.com/

10/06/2026

Ever caught yourself making assumptions about what deaf people can’t do? It’s a common mistake, but it’s time to challenge that thinking. ⁠
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Here’s how to move beyond assumptions and see abilities with an open mind: ⁠
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1️⃣ DON’T ASSUME LIMITATIONS.⁠
Just because someone is deaf doesn’t mean they’re incapable. Deaf people can drive, work in various fields, excel in leadership, and do everything hearing people can, except hear. Avoid assuming what someone can’t do based solely on their hearing status.⁠
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2️⃣ FOCUS ON ABILITIES, NOT DIFFERENCES.⁠
Instead of questioning whether a deaf person can do something, recognise their skills and strengths. Hearing loss doesn’t define their capabilities. Let’s shift the focus to what each individual brings to the table.⁠
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3️⃣ EDUCATE YOURSELF.⁠
We all have gaps in our understanding, but the key is to learn. Deaf people face enough barriers without outdated assumptions holding them back. Take the time to educate yourself, and you’ll see that deafness isn’t a limitation, it’s just a difference in how we experience the world. ⁠
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It’s time to stop underestimating people based on stereotypes and start embracing the full potential of everyone. ⁠
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Ready to improve your Deaf Awareness? Contact our friendly team and book your session now! ⁠
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09/06/2026

The job market is HARD right now with more competition, more uncertainty, and more people applying for the same opportunities 😮‍💨
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For Deaf people, communication barriers can make those worries feel even bigger.⁠
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So what can you do?⁠
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One of the smartest things is to keep building your skills.⁠
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Whether that's returning to college, gaining qualifications, improving your CV, or getting the right support at work, every step makes you stronger and more employable.⁠
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We’ve written a new blog all about why so many Deaf people are choosing to upskill before September, and how proper support can help open doors: https://www.deafumbrella.com/post/deaf-upskilling

09/06/2026

Access to Work can turn simple adjustments into everyday inclusion. We supported a Deaf jobseeker in Kent who struggled in meetings. Before, they relied on lipreading and missed key points; after, Access to Work funded a Communication Support Worker (CSW), so they now take part fully and confidently. We guide applicants through the process and secure the right support. Visit https://www.deafumbrella.com/

08/06/2026

Honestly, every BSL learner has had that moment where you finish signing something with full confidence… and then immediately realise your word order just sent the conversation into another dimension 💀⁠
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The good news? That awkward stage is completely normal. Grammar is one of the biggest shifts when learning BSL because it’s not just “English with signs”; it’s a whole different language structure.⁠
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So if your brain occasionally melts during class… welcome to the club 😌⁠
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Tag your BSL bestie who’s fighting for their life with grammar right now 😭⁠
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BSLCommunity

08/06/2026

🚨 “Never mind.”

Two words, and a huge impact.

Most hearing staff don’t realise this phrase can make Deaf colleagues feel instantly dismissed. And that’s the problem with workplace exclusion:
It’s usually NOT intentional.

It’s the small daily habits people never stop to think about.

We’ve just shared a new article covering:
• talking while walking away
• overlapping meeting conversations
• inaccessible “informal” communication
• the hidden exhaustion Deaf staff experience daily

If your workplace thinks inclusion simply means “being nice,” this article may change your perspective.

Read it now:

Most workplace exclusion does not come from cruelty. It comes from habits.

08/06/2026

A lot of Deaf people are feeling uncertain about work right now.

Jobs are competitive, interviews can feel stressful, and many people are wondering how to improve their chances or feel more secure in employment.
One answer? Upskilling.

That might mean:
✔ Going back to college
✔ Doing online courses
✔ Improving your CV
✔ Asking for support at work
✔ Applying for Access to Work

We’ve written a new article about why more Deaf people are choosing to invest in themselves before September, and how support like CSWs and Access to Work can make a huge difference.

Read here:

The UK job market is becoming more competitive, and many Deaf people are choosing to upskill before September. Discover how college courses, training, Access to Work, and Communication Support Workers can help improve confidence, employability, and long-term job security.

08/06/2026

First edition from the Deaf Umbrella Insider SENT!

We created this newsletter to share the things people often wish they’d known earlier, so if you’d like to keep receiving future editions, practical tips, and honest insight throughout the year, make sure you stay subscribed.

Take a look at the first one here, and let us know your thoughts: https://deafumbrella.com/so/6bPvZqhKw?languageTag=en&cid=6b3cee78-cd2c-4a13-b124-c534deae025b