Deaf Awareness Week 4-10th May 2026

Deaf Awareness Week is an annual event raising awareness about deafness and celebrating British deaf culture, community, and history. 

This year it's about raising awareness of common signs of deafness and hearing loss, to help make sure deaf children get the right support as soon as possible. 

In the UK, around half of deaf children are born deaf. The other half are born hearing and become deaf as they get older. 

It can be hard for families and teachers to recognise when a child is showing signs of deafness, especially if the deafness is mild, affects one ear only, or happens gradually. 

Some signs of childhood deafness – like not responding when called, or preferring to play alone – can be mistaken for conditions like autism. Other signs of deafness – like not following instructions or getting frustrated easily – might be mistaken for being naughty!

The earlier a child is identified as deaf, the earlier they can be supported – whether that's through getting hearing aids, learning sign language, or having some extra help at school.

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Published on 5 May 2026