Dear Editor,
As a deaf person in the UK, I know there’s still a long way to go until we can say we’re a truly equal society. Common everyday activities like shopping, visiting the doctors or socialising can be full of challenges.
Things have improved in many ways over the years, but being deaf in a world made for hearing people can feel like being in an invisible box. But with just a few simple changes, we can include everyone.
In my line of work, as a model and actor – immense effort is required for every interaction, whether it’s lip-reading across a studio during a shoot or constantly asking people to repeat themselves.
This Deaf Awareness Week 2026 (4 – 10 May) I’ve teamed up with RNID to show people how they can break through these invisible barriers for the 18 million adults in the UK who are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus.
With a few simple changes and a little bit of patience, we can include everyone. Simple actions like getting someone’s attention, letting them see your lips when you’re speaking, and learning a few basic phrases in British Sign Language – these can all remove the barriers instantly.
Sign up to RNID’s ‘It does matter’ campaign to receive free deaf awareness communications tips and simple British Sign Language (BSL) videos. Visit rnid.org.uk
Regards,
Georgia Meacham
Deaf actor, model and RNID Ambassador
