> Thurs 25th Sept

Deaf Rights in Crises

IDS Position Paper on Mental Health

The Irish Deaf Society believe that one of the biggest crises Deaf people in Ireland continue to face is a lack of equal access to mental health services.

As a result, the IDS has developed a new Mental Health Position Paper which highlights the reality that Deaf people are more vulnerable to poor mental health because of communication barriers, isolation, and language deprivation. It is important for everyone to recognise that access to Irish Sign Language is not optional, it is a fundamental health need and important to the well-being of Deaf people.

We are proud to announce that we will officially launch this paper online on World Mental Health Day, Friday 10th October, from 11am to 1pm. This launch is an important step in our campaign to make sure Deaf people’s rights, culture and language are respected in Ireland’s mental health system.

You can register for this event.

TU Dublin / OT Atha Cliath

The Irish Deaf Society was delighted to be invited to TU Dublin / OT Baile Átha Cliath Blanchardstown.

Our Advocacy Project Officer, together with two fellow CDS students, hosted an information stand to share more about IDS and to engage with students, even inviting them to sign their names and courses in Irish Sign language (ISL)!

We were delighted to share the space with Nando's team, who had their own stall on campus and also took part in our ISL Challenge. A fantastic way to celebrate language, culture, and accessibility together!

A huge thank you to Julianne Duffy Gillen and Dr Robert Smith PhD for welcoming us and supporting this event on campus.

Did you know...

Did you know many buildings still rely on sound-only alarms? For Deaf people, visual alerts like flashing lights are essential for safety in emergencies. Without them, vital warnings can be missed.

Equal access in times of crisis saves lives.

Did you know...

Did you know that in emergencies, like a car breakdown or a lost bank card The only option is often a voice call? For many Deaf people, this means important help is out of reach.

Access to emergency services in sign language or text is not a luxury, it’s a basic right.

Keep an eye out on our social media – Facebook / X.com / Instagram for updates #IWDP25 #IWDP #IDSL #ISLAwarenessWeek

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Irish Deaf Society