Published on: 6th June 2025
This year, Deafblind Awareness Week runs from June 22-28.
Deafblindness is a combined sight and hearing impairment that affects almost 100,000 people in Australia.
Deafblind Awareness Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness of and celebrate people living with Deafblindness in our community. Deafblind Australia encourages people to use Deafblind Awareness Week to learn more about Deafblindness and how to affects people.
We recently interviewed Steven Hellier from South Australia about his experience as a Deafblind person and a Deaf Connect Support Work participant. Learn about his experience below!
Tell us about your experience working with a Deaf Connect Support Worker.
SH: My experience has been very good. My favourite part is having the Support Worker guide and support me anywhere, from a walk around the lake to just chatting with them.
How has Deaf Connect impacted or benefited your life?
SH: Deaf Connect has helped make my life accessible. If a Support Worker from another organisation is unwell or can’t make the booking, Deaf Connect can provide a replacement Support Worker to help me access things, like shopping for my food.
Are there any misconceptions about Deafblind people that you’d like to address?
SH: Some people think Deafblind people aren’t smart because of their communication disability. But really this isn’t true – we just have a different way of communication than other people.
Are there any other support services for Deafblind people that you’d like others to know about?
Yes – Able Australia and Deafblind programs like Deafblind VIC.
Want to know more about Deaf Connect Support Work?
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