Learn Deafblind Manual

You can learn how to use Deafblind Manual on this page. This page also includes information about the Deafblind Manual alphabet, different communication methods, and where to get support.

What is Deafblind Manual?

Deafblind Manual is a way of communicating using just your sense touch.

It uses unique letter signs to spell words and sentences onto your hand. Every letter of the alphabet has a Deafblind Manual sign.

Deafblind Manual is often used by people with little to no sight or hearing, but anyone can learn it. You might prefer to use Deafblind Manual if you have low vision and hearing loss or if you know someone who does.

How does Deafblind Manual work?

Because Deafblind Manual relies on your sense of touch, you should be comfortable with having your hands touched and touching someone else’s hand to use it.

The person who’s talking traces letter signs onto the hand of the listener. These signs build up words and sentences.

Experienced Deafblind Manual users may anticipate words and sentences before they’re fully signed, which can speed up conversations.

When you’re first learning Deafblind Manual, you might choose to sit close to the person you’re talking with and use the letter signs more slowly. When you’re both confident with Deafblind Manual and know each other well, conversations get much faster and you might be comfortable using the signs while moving about or walking.

How to learn Deafblind Manual

You can get the basics of Deafblind Manual in about half an hour.

Watch this video to get started:

The complete Deafblind Manual alphabet

There’s a unique sign for every letter of the alphabet in Deafblind Manual.

You’ll use these signs to spell out words and full sentences onto the hand of the person you’re chatting with.

Support for people who are deafblind

If you have sight and hearing loss, or if you support someone who does, you can always talk to us.

We offer free, expert support with everything from finding new ways to communicate, to help with technology and getting out and about. We can also link you to local social groups, befriending and other organisations. You can contact our helpline in the following ways:

• Telephone: 0800 132320
• Text: 07903572885
• Email: [email protected]
• Text relay: 18001 then 0800 132320

You can also click here to contact us by BSL relay.

Teaching Deafblind Manual to children

If your child has very little sight or hearing, learning Deafblind Manual could open their world and help them communicate. Please contact us using the details given above to find out how we can support you.

Deafblind Manual is also a good way to teach your children about different ways of communicating. Here are some ideas for teachers and parents:

For primary school children:

• Learn to spell your name with Deafblind Manual signs
• Learn to say ‘Hello’ or a short sentence in Deafblind Manual.

For secondary school children:

• Use Deafblind Manual to tell the person sitting next to you what your favourite television series is, and see if they understand correctly
• Ask the person sitting next to you what they did at the weekend and listen to their response in Deafblind Manual.