I have worked with a number of people with a range of hearing loss and I have British Sign Language (Stage I). I put these notes together for a colleague who had employees who wanted to be part of a training session and did not did not wish to use an interpreter / lip speaker.

I would recommend the following as good practice:

1. Ensure there is adequate lighting which throws no shadows on the trainer.

2. Ensure that anyone with hearing loss sits in a position where they have an unimpeded view of the trainer and any visual aids used.

3. If the trainer is going to use handouts, give these to those with hearing loss prior to the training. People with hearing loss need to concentrate on the trainer/speaker. Having any notes beforehand enables them to do this.

4. The trainer should face the people with hearing loss at all times. Do not speak with your back to anyone with hearing loss, e.g. while writing on a flipchart.

5. Trainers should never cover their mouths when speaking.

6. If possible, avoid using a trainer with a beard or heavy moustache.

7. The trainer should avoid wearing clothing or jewellery which may distract from the focus on their face, e.g. dangly earrings.

8. The trainer should establish ground rules for the group regarding communication, e.g. only one person should speak at a time and should ensure that his/her face is visible to anyone with a hearing loss

9. Before speaking, the trainer should ensure he/she already has the attention of anyone with a hearing loss, e.g. by raising a hand/waving.

10. Avoid rooms with any background noise and switch off any equipment when not in use, e.g. OHPs, as these will interfere with hearing aid reception.

11. If those with hearing loss use hearing aids, see if it is possible to use a venue equipped with a loop. (Most modern hearing aids can be switched to pick up from the loop).

12. The trainer should make it easy for those with hearing loss to give feedback on the effectiveness of communication at an early stage and at regular intervals.

13. If possible, work with the group in a circle or U shape

14. For any syndicate work, provide a separate quiet room for any grouping that includes a person with hearing loss

The above are suggestions. However, it is always courteous for the trainer to meet anyone with a hearing loss prior to the training to ascertain from them exactly what the individual needs are and to seek their advice.