Communication Support Workers
Communication Support Workers (CSWs) help Deaf and hard of hearing people access spoken communication, most often in educational and training settings. They use a range of strategies—such as note-taking, sign-supported English, BSL, or visual resources—to make information clear and understandable.
Who benefits from Communication Support Work?
CSWs support Deaf and hard of hearing children, young people, and adults who may use BSL, sign‑supported English, speech, or a combination of communication methods. They also assist teachers, tutors, and employers by helping them communicate effectively with Deaf learners or staff and by clarifying how to make information more accessible.
What does a Communication Support Worker do
Communication Support Workers can offer support in a wide range of contexts, such as:
Education: Working in schools, colleges, and universities to support Deaf learners in lessons, tutorials, exams, and placements, ensuring they can follow teaching and complete tasks.
Training and Apprenticeships: Assisting during vocational courses, workplace training, and assessments so Deaf trainees can access instructions and safety information.
Employment: Supporting Deaf employees in meetings, briefings, supervision sessions, and informal workplace communication, using agreed communication methods.
Community Settings: Helping Deaf people participate in community classes, youth groups, and other organised activities by adapting and reinforcing spoken information.
Day‑to‑day Learning Support: Clarifying new vocabulary, checking understanding, adapting resources (e.g. simplifying language, adding visuals), and encouraging independent learning strategies.
All our Communication Support Workers work under clear professional guidelines, maintaining appropriate boundaries, promoting independence, and upholding confidentiality and respect in every setting.