Working with Victims Who Are Deaf

Many individuals who are deaf identify themselves as Deaf—part of a Deaf culture that embodies a community with its own language and values.  In developing an understanding of Deaf culture and the Deaf community, it is important to recognize that many individuals who are Deaf do not consider themselves to have a “disability.”  Since accessibility needs vary from person to person, advocates can learn directly from the person what accommodations for communication, if any, that person requires to access services. 

This section provides information and links to additional information for working with the Deaf community and persons who are hard of hearing.

SELECTED RESOURCES

• Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services (ADWAS)

• ADWAS Publications

• Accessibility Guide for Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Service Providers
  Published by Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy, Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault, and IndependenceFirst, April 2004. 

• Resources for Victims Who Are Deaf