Answer to questions (in written English)

Below are the answers to questions in written English

1. In addition to the utilization of standardized assessment tools in sign language, are there any specific cultural considerations that mental health providers should be aware of when working with the deaf community?

Culturally appropriate mental health services are vital for Deaf people, not only in linguistic terms (e.g. being accessible in their preferred sign language) but culturally too (being able to meet Deaf cultural needs). Specific cultural considerations that mental health providers should be aware of when working with deaf community would be (but are not limited to):

• Health professionals recognising that Deaf people are visual beings and have cultural values and different life experiences.
• A simple translation of information into sign language alone is insufficient to build an appropriate fund of information for Deaf people.
• Collaborating with Deaf people is the way forward to build trust with healthcare providers. This includes different aspects of healthcare such as policy, research and education, and so forth.

2. It is great to know that there are different mental health measures and screenings available in BSL. I am interested in learning more about the current provision of sign interpreters for individuals who are deaf and seeking mental health support in UK. Unfortunately, my area lacks a well-developed system to assist the deaf community in accessing interpreters when they seek mental health services.

I am not sure about other countries, but in the UK when you become a qualified BSL/English interpreter and have registered with the NRCPD body, you can work in healthcare settings. However, to interpret in mental health settings it is desirable to have a considerable experience interpreting and additional mental health training. Most NHS providers are contracted with language agencies for the provision on BSL interpreters. Additionally, each NHS provider may have their own interpreting policy that interpreters/agencies adhere to.

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