5 ways to support deaf clients in the nail space
By Chloe Randall | 03 March 2022 | Expert Advice, Feature
One in five adults in the UK has some form of hearing loss, highlighting the importance of making your nail space as comfortable and inclusive as possible for deaf people so they can enjoy the experience and benefit from your nail services.
Here are some ways to make your business more inclusive to deaf clients…
1. PPE
Many deaf people rely on lip-reading, however the use of face coverings due to the Covid-19 pandemic has made lip-reading impossible. If you are continuing to wear face coverings while working, consider one with a clear panel over the mouth or lower your mask at a safe distance to aid communication.
2. Communication
“Always ask your client what communication needs they have as everyone is different. Don’t be afraid to communicate as sitting in silence can make the client feel awkward,” reveals Annie Harris, advocacy officer at Royal National Institute of Deaf People.
“Make sure you always speak to the person and not to an interpreter or anyone else they have with them. Also, please don’t shout as this will come across as aggressive and can be uncomfortable for hearing aid users.”
3. Social media
Subtitle your video content on social media to ensure that deaf followers can still enjoy your content. Subtitles are easily available on most social media platforms so you don’t have to add them manually.
If your video features music, make sure it is not louder than the person speaking. If you have a deaf staff member who uses sign language, invite them to do a video in British Sign Language to explain your treatment offerings.
4. Hearing loops
A useful addition to the salon would be to make sure you have a hearing loop installed for people with hearing loss and ensure it is serviced regularly.
Also, don’t be afraid to repeat or rephrase information, and consider writing it down if the person doesn’t understand. You can also use speech to text apps so the person can read the information on a phone or tablet.
5. Treatments
Make sure you have information about each treatment written down and have pricing information clearly displayed with pictures of each treatment to help clients understand your services without needing to ask for help.