I am Deaf and this is how I work

Natasha: Community Support Worker

Hi, my name is Natasha and I’m a Community Support Worker

As you know people who are Deaf or hard of hearing have different skills and abilities just like anyone else. Sometimes, people think we can’t communicate and therefore we won’t be good at our jobs but guess what…we are!

Here’s my story so that you can learn more about people who are Deaf and how we work.

I love my job...

I support children with disabilities as well as their families. I love my job because I am able to contribute and use both my personal experience as well as my professional experience to give back. I feel good knowing I have made a change and contributed to people’s lives. It’s my passion.

I overcome challenges...

I support a variety of clients, with varying needs, including a young girl who is Deaf and has cerebral palsy. I help her to shower, dress, with her schooling and to communicate with her teacher or therapists.

I work with all my clients to help them overcome challenges and enhance their understanding. We problem solve by using gestures, sign language, drawing pictures and even making things. I can often communicate with my clients when others can’t because I understand their frustrations and challenges.

I’m just one of the team...

I am dedicated to my job and I am a reliable person with strong organisational and time management skills. I love my work and am flexible with whatever is thrown my way. I am part of a team that helps my clients have a better life. It’s great to contribute.

I’m proud of what I do.

Jacqui: Courier

Hi, my name is Jacqui and I’m a courier

As you know people who are Deaf or hard of hearing have different skills and abilities just like people who hear. Sometimes, people think we can’t communicate and therefore we won’t be good at our jobs but guess what…we are!

Here’s my story so that you can learn more about people who are Deaf and how we work.

I love my job...

I drive a delivery van and I really love my job. When customers receive their parcels, I feel like I’m Santa giving out gifts. My job keeps me fit and healthy and I get to meet all sorts of people.

I overcome challenges...

Every day has little challenges when delivering parcels.

For example, when there's an audible doorbell. So, I place my hand on the button, press it and feel it vibrate, and I ‘hear’ it ring in another way. If people are home and there’s a camera, I hold up the parcel, and people get there is a parcel. If no one answers, I leave a delivery slip.

When all the shops were closed due to coronavirus, my delivery route changed. I met my manager and interpreter on Zoom every day. Everyone has problems using Zoom, like forgetting to mute, but luckily for me this isn’t an issue ;)

I’m just one of the team...

I am a quick worker and learner. I always complete my round on time and love to help others in my team with their work if needed.

I was promoted to a Senior Postal Delivery Officer (SPDO). I started on a trial and my bosses could see I was able to do the job, and I wasn’t limited in performing my duties because I can’t hear so I got the job permanently. Over time, I would love to train to become a Team leader and teach others my little tricks for doing the job well.