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FAQs

Hello and welcome to the Advisers for Deaf Network FAQs!

The Advisers for Deaf Network (ADN) was set up in 2024 as a not-for-profit means of connecting professional services providers committed to ensuring the best service possible and increasing access for d/Deaf clients. We are passionate about inclusion and through completion of the criteria on the ADN website, we encourage firms to improve their understanding of the barriers faced by the d/Deaf community in the U.K. and take action to create a culture of accessibility within the professional services sector.

We have set up this FAQs with the aim of pooling shared knowledge, experience, and developments within the professional services sector and the d/Deaf community. We hope you will find the posts informative and insightful.

Why is it needed?
It remains extremely difficult for the d/Deaf community in this country to obtain legal, accounting and financial advice in a way that is accessible to them. Many d/Deaf people struggle to communicate with hearing peers due to language barriers, limited English comprehension, and a general lack of public awareness of how to interact with a d/Deaf person. The ADN is designed to change that and to create a network of likeminded firms to whom clients can be referred and be confident that such firms understand their needs and can provide their advice in an accessible format, guided by the individual’s communication preferences.
How do I access Deaf Awareness training?
Deaf Awareness training for staff can be organised by individual firms or through the ADN. We have a bank of qualified, Deaf trainers who work in partnership with interpreters to deliver a high-quality, two-hour session covering general Deaf Awareness, communication tips, lip reading, and basic British Sign Language. Training can be completed either in-person or online.
Why do I have to pay a membership fee?
The annual membership fee covers the maintenance of the Network and its’ website. The Network is a not-for-profit and no firm stands to benefit financially from membership fees.
How do I know an interpreter is qualified and how do I book one?

All British Sign Language Interpreters must be registered with the NRCPD (National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People). All interpreters have a page on the NRCPD website where you can check their credentials. A fully qualified interpreter (RSLI) will have a yellow ID card and a trainee interpreter (TSLI) will have a blue ID card. All interpreters should offer to show you their ID card prior to a meeting’s commencement. Some d/Deaf people will have a specific interpreter they prefer, and you are welcome to allow them to choose their own interpreter. However, please be mindful that for complex content such as legal or financial advice, family members or friends may not have a high enough level of BSL to provide an accurate interpretation. Children should never be used to interpret.

Interpreters can be booked through interpreting agencies such as Action Deafness, BSL First, Deaf Action, and Communication Unlimited. Please note, different agencies cover different areas of the UK. The ADN has a list of agencies by region, and we are happy to advise our members on this.

Why can’t we just write everything down?

British Sign Language (BSL) has its own grammar structure, completely separate from English. Many BSL users have English as a second or even third language. Communication through writing therefore relies on the d/Deaf client having a good understanding of English, similar to if a hearing person had studied French at school and was then asked to discuss their pension plans in French. For a more detailed explanation of this common misconception, please see here.

Why can’t I have a family member interpret?

Using family members to interpret for d/Deaf clients is increasingly discouraged. There have been examples of family members who only have very basic signing skills being asked to interpret complex information and others who have changed what is being said so that they stand to benefit, particularly in terms of financial benefit such as in wills, tax planning etc. Individuals’ personal and religious views may also lead them to tweak questions and answers. Registered interpreters not only ensure a clear and accurate translation is given, but also remove the risk of someone changing what the client says as they are bound by ethical and professional standards.

How do I find your membership list?

To find out which firms are official members of the ADN, please click the ‘Members’ tab at the top of the page. Here you can find a list of all the services offered by firms across the UK and their accessible contact details.

Any queries? Don’t hesitate to contact us