May Proclaimed Speech and Hearing Awareness Month

Released on April 30, 2015

Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer today proclaimed May as Speech and Hearing Awareness Month in Saskatchewan.

“I encourage everyone to take part in the early detection and prevention of communication disabilities, one of the fastest-growing disabilities worldwide,” Harpauer said.  “This month also serves to remind us to become more aware of some of the challenges individuals who experience communication disabilities encounter.”

Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services Inc. (SDHHS) have been providing services for people who are Deaf, Deafened and Hard of Hearing for more than 30 years.  The primary mission of SDHHS is to promote a world without barriers for people who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing.

“Infant screening at birth is the best way to lessen the impact of deafness,” SDHHS Executive Director Nairn Gillies said.  “Early detection and awareness about the benefits of sign language for families will improve language acquisition for children who are born Deaf.  Children who are deaf, children with hearing loss, and children with other communication disabilities who learn language early have reduced frustration, improved education, and better connections to their families and friends.”

“Our government thanks SDHHS for the valuable services they provide to those with speech and hearing disabilities,” Harpauer said.  “We appreciate their continued work to raise awareness of disability issues impacting their members.”

Some of the services SDHHS provide include Sign Language Interpreter and Computerized Notetaker Services, public education about the accommodations people living with these disabilities require, and a discount hearing aid battery program.  The organization also provides information and access to technical aids and devices for persons who are deaf, deafened and hard of hearing.

The 2015–16 Budget provides more than $23 million to support the inclusion of people with disabilities in the social and economic life of our province.  These investments demonstrate the Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to its vision of being the best place in Canada for people with disabilities to live.

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For more information, contact:

Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca

Nairn Gillies
SDHHS
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-665-6575
Email: nairn@sdhhs.com