Over the past 4 years, my client, who is a deaf BSL user, faced significant stress dealing with local authority officials due to a lack of deaf awareness and proper communication support. This article outlines the journey from confusion to resolution, emphasising the crucial role their right of effective advocacy and communication.
The Initial Struggle
The trouble began when my client was approached by the local authority due to a problem that required intervention.
Despite the necessity of resolving the issue, the situation was significantly exacerbated by poor communication from council staff. The situation worsened as officials repeatedly visited without an interpreter, despite my client’s plea for a British Sign Language Interpreter, leading to repeated communication breakdowns.
English is not my client’s first language so faced further language barriers when multiple letters arrived through the post.
Each unannounced visit left my client trying to sign their confusion the them about what was being said, only to be misunderstood and seen as irate—a common problem faced by many deaf individuals. This left my client frustrated and angry and at a loss as to what to do.
My client attended court alone, without support and without understanding why he was there. Although a court BSL interpreter was present, the information was not conveyed clearly enough for my client to fully grasp the outcome and his required actions. This secondary communication breakdown left my client unaware of his next steps, leading to more visits from the local authority and additional letters, including another threat of court action. At this point, a friend advised him to seek help.
Seeking Professional Help
Feeling helpless, my client contacted me last year for guidance. It was clear that we needed more than legal advice; we needed someone to bridge the communication gap. As a deaf intermediary, I ensured my client's voice was heard accurately. I found a solicitor who understood my client's challenges, and we facilitated meetings with an interpreter to avoid further misunderstandings.
The Path to Resolution
Together with the solicitor, we worked diligently to address the core issues. We presented a comprehensive case, highlighting my client's difficulties due to the council's lack of communication support. Our efforts paid off, tasks were put in place as requested by the local authority to rectify the issue and the charges against my client were finally dropped.
This outcome underscores the importance of proper advocacy and communication in resolving disputes.
Addressing the Aftermath
While the primary issue has been resolved, there is still a lack of deaf awareness within the local authority. Also, the financial burden on my client cannot be ignored. The solicitor is now working diligently to reduce some of the costs incurred during this long-drawn-out process. This final step is crucial in ensuring that my client can move forward without the added stress of financial strain.
Conclusion
This case highlights the need for professional communication support. It demonstrates the vital role of intermediaries, advocates and interpreters in ensuring all parties are accurately heard and understood. it serves as a reminder that justice and resolution are achievable when there is a concerted effort to address and rectify communication barriers.
While the journey has been long and fraught with challenges, the successful resolution of my client's issue is a powerful example of how persistence, advocacy, and effective communication can triumph over bureaucratic obstacles.
Comments