Shortage of Specialists

Trained Professionals in BC working with Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing Individuals

The Family Network of Deaf Children (FNDC) based in Vancouver is currently conducting a province-wide survey to address the significant shortage of trained professionals in the province serving Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing (DDBHH) individuals. The shortage of Interpreters, Intervenors, Teachers of the Deaf/DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing, Early Childhood Educators and Speech Language Pathologists specific to DDBHH, EA’s, ASL instructors and ASL Specialists present significant barriers to accessing education and daily services for DDHHH of all ages.

Together the lack of available professionals and the lack of comprehensive data present challenges for organizations striving to reduce these gaps. By undertaking this initiative, FNDC aims to produce a comprehensive and detailed report outlining the current shortages of qualified professionals, highlight the barriers and address these shortages create for DDBHH British Columbians, ultimately paving the way for improved access and inclusion.

The project team, recruited by FNDC, includes both Deaf and hearing professionals, a sign language interpreter, a UBC graduate student, a Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, an Accessibility Research/Policy Consultant, and an ASL specialist.

IDHHC will post the report once it becomes available so please feel free to reach out to us at any time with your inquiries.