Over the last number of months, we have been working with Chime, Ireland’s national charity for Deaf and hard of hearing people, to look at what practical resources we can provide to our clubs.
One of the areas we have focused on is communication.
Working with Chime, we have developed a series of Irish Sign Language videos covering some simple signs that can be useful in a rugby environment. We have also developed a resource that clubs can use and share with their coaches, volunteers and players.
For International Week of Deaf People, see some helpful videos below, with relevant rugby terms.
The aim isn’t to expect coaches or volunteers to learn Irish Sign Language overnight. It is about giving people a little more knowledge and confidence and showing that sometimes small changes can make a big difference to someone’s experience in a rugby club.
It could be learning a few simple signs, asking someone how they prefer to communicate, making sure a player can see the coach when instructions are being given, or taking a little extra time to make sure information has been understood.
These resources are also not just for one awareness week.
The videos will form part of our new Disability Awareness Training, which will be launching in the coming weeks. This means clubs, coaches and volunteers will be able to go back and watch them again as part of the training.
We want to continue building practical resources that clubs can actually use and that help make it easier for players, coaches, volunteers and supporters with a disability to be part of rugby.
International Week of Deaf People gives us a good opportunity to highlight some of this work, but the important part is making sure the learning and resources continue to be used throughout the year.
For more information please contact our Disability & Inclusion Officer david.Mckay@irfu.ie