Benefits of broadband:
Deaf and hard of hearing

One of the greatest benefits of using the Internet for deaf and hard of hearing people is the greater choice in how you communicate and keep in touch.

If you find phone calls difficult, Instant Messenger is an alternative to a phone call. Instant Messenger lets you have instant conversations with friends and family by typing what you want to say and you can also send photos. You can even connect a webcam to your computer and use it to send video images of yourself along with your typed message.

If you need to contact a business or organisation to find out information or make a complaint, broadband will give you quick access to their website. You will then have instant access to fact sheets, view any product demos, shop online and you can contact them by e-mail instead of over the phone.

Although BT TextDirect gives textphone users access to any telephone number, we are aware that there can be problems if an organisation is not used to getting text calls. By using email to contact an organisation, your deafness needn't become part of your enquiry. Similarly, if face to face communication is sometimes difficult when dealing with shops, banks etc., try online shopping and banking via broadband.

For people who are Deaf and use British Sign Language (BSL) broadband also opens up greater opportunities for communication. To find out more visit our BSL Broadband Guide.