Supporting a Deaf young person cont.
risk of abuse and neglect than hearing young people. This is due to many factors including increased isolation, communication barriers, misunderstanding signs of abuse, lack of education on staying safe, dependency on others, and inadequate support. Deaf young people are also less likely to receive the protection and support they need when they have been abused (159). It is crucial that everyone who is around a Deaf young person understands how to protect them against people who would take advantage of their vulnerability, and act accordingly. If you have reason to believe a Deaf young person is being abused, contact the young person’s social care team (if they have one) or call the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children’s (NSPCC) 24-hour helpline on 0808 800 5000. The NSPCC can offer advice and guidance, and take your concerns to the appropriate channels on your behalf. Your call can be anonymous. If you work for an employer with a child protection policy, follow the guidelines immediately. If you believe the young person is in immediate danger, call the police on 999. Signpost Professional and other helps Some of the mental health supports that hearing young people use may not be appropriate for a deaf young person. For example, some services may not provide information in plain written English, or they may not provide interpretation/video support services. Be aware of the communication limitations and barriers when suggesting support groups and other self-help supports too. The young person may not have an effective network (family, peers, neighbours) if their connections don’t share a primary form of communication. Try not to make any assumptions about their
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