If we’re not used to dealing with disabled people, we may feel awkward when we come across someone with a disability. We may not know how best to help them – and we might cause offence without meaning to. <br /> <br />A lot of the time, we worry unnecessarily – for example, it’s perfectly all right to say ‘I don’t see why…’ when talking to a blind or visually impaired person. But there are some common mistakes that non-disabled people make when dealing with disabled people – and here are five of the most common. <br /> <br /> <br />1. Taking a blind or visually impaired person’s arm <br />Most people actually prefer to take your arm, not the other way around – so don’t grab a person to guide them. Instead, offer your arm if they need it and be sure to warn them of any obstacles. <br /> <br />2. Shouting at someone with a hearing impairment <br />Shouting doesn’t make us easier to understand – in fact, it distorts our faces and it can make it harder for people with a hearing impairment to lip-read. So just speak at your normal speed and volume, and make sure that the person can see you. <br /> <br />3. Talking to guide dogs before their owners <br />We all love dogs, but it’s rude to speak to and fuss over a guide dog before addressing its owner. So always talk to the person, not the dog. <br /> <br />4. Standing up when talking to a wheelchair user <br />A wheelchair user will soon get a stiff neck from looking up at someone who’s standing. So try to get down to a similar level – they won’t think you’re being condescending, and they’ll be much more comfortable. <br /> <br />5. Assuming you know how to help <br />We may not always be the best judge of how to help someone who’s disabled. So if in doubt – just ask. <br /> <br />Learn the practical steps you need to take when serving disabled customers and working with disabled colleagues with Disability Confident training from Skill Boosters.
