The Bureau of Services for Persons Who Are Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing is part of the Connecticut Department of Aging and Disability Services (ADS). This office helps people across Connecticut who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing. Keep reading to learn how the Bureau supports and empowers these individuals.
Connecting You with Qualified Interpreters:
- The Bureau keeps a list of interpreters who are approved to work in Connecticut. These interpreters help translate between spoken English and sign language, tactile language, or other ways people who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing communicate.
- The Bureau makes sure these interpreters meet certain standards and qualifications. These standards include places like doctor's offices, schools, community engagements, or legal meetings.
- You can find the Connecticut List of Registered Interpreters on our website to help you access the communication you need.
- For help finding an interpreter, visit www.211ct.org and search “Sign Language Interpreting.”
A Hub for Information and Resources:
- This page is a central resource for information and services available to people who are Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing. It will be updated regularly and will include accessible videos.
- We also have a resource page that provides links to services from ADS and other Connecticut state agencies. These include social services, independent living, housing, mental health, and family support.
Improving Accessibility:
- We work to remove communication barriers and challenges. This helps people easily find and use important services and programs.
Expanding Support and Referrals:
- The Bureau connects people to different kinds of services. This includes job searches, counseling and independent living in Aging and Disability Services. We can also connect you with other state agency resources.
- The Bureau offers training for interpreters, state workers, and the public. These trainings help improve access and communication for everyone.
- The Bureau also offers training for community members. These trainings help people learn how to use different systems, understand their rights, and use tools that make services easier to access.
Raising Awareness:
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- The Bureau works to teach the public about the needs and rights of people who are Deaf, DeafBlind or Hard of Hearing, and vice versa.
Overall, the Bureau helps make sure people who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing can communicate and get important information and support. This helps them live full and independent lives in Connecticut. The Bureau is led by Director Morrison, who is DeafBlind and brings personal experience and understanding to the work.