Special Considerations for Deaf Victims of Crime

Deaf individuals in the United States face domestic or sexual violence rates equal to or higher than hearing individuals but often encounter systemic barriers and challenges when seeking help. This webinar will explore working with Deaf crime victims, such as victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and financial crimes. Language and communication methods in the Deaf community and the societal impact of audism will be examined. Information on “For the Deaf by the Deaf” programs and other resources benefiting Deaf victims in their communities will also be shared. The session will help participants identify barriers Deaf victims face in seeking victim services, with considerations for people with developmental disabilities, Deaf/Blind, and hard-to-reach populations, as well as immediate steps victim service providers can take when meeting a Deaf victim for the first time.