Face masks in classrooms “devastating” for deaf children

The National Deaf Children’s Society has responded to reports that face masks will be mandatory in secondary school classrooms when schools return on March 8th.

Ian Noon, Head of Policy at the National Deaf Children’s Society, said:

“With England’s 35,000 deaf pupils close to a return to education, the goalposts on face masks have moved yet again. Public health must take priority, but bringing face masks into classrooms will have a devastating effect on deaf children’s studies, mental health and ability to take part in lessons.

“The Government cannot make an announcement and expect this to be enough. It must move quickly to show exactly how it will guarantee deaf children can still access their lessons.

“We cannot have a situation where thousands of deaf children and young people are unable to understand their teacher, leaving many with little point in even attending class.

“The future of their education is at stake and the clock has already started.”

For more informations visit The National Deaf Childrens Society website