Learn how social adaptation of people with hearing impairments is organized in Belarus

About how organized social adaptation of people with hearing impairments in our country, told the head of the Department of social rehabilitation, habilitation of people with disabilities No. 2 of the territorial center of social services of the population of the Moscow district of Minsk Natalia Shcherbova.

During the competition and sports program “In the rhythm of active longevity”, dedicated to the International Week of the Deaf in Belarus, Natalia Shcherbova noted that one of the important forms of social support of the state is the service of a sign language interpreter.

Our center has been providing such services since 2018. There are currently 169 people in the area. We have two sign language translators. They provide services in healthcare institutions, in investigative bodies, in notary offices – wherever assistance is needed for people with hearing impairment. Interpreters work every day by appointment. They also offer guided tours to all who wish. Residents of other districts of Minsk sometimes participate in them. We also provide information to people with hearing impairments. We hold meetings with specialists of housing and communal services, banks, representatives of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, Natalia Shcherbova said.

She also noted that socialization of people with hearing impairment in Belarus is carried out from an early age. Specialized kindergartens and schools have been established for children. Through this system, people with hearing impairments receive education and find work. For example, in Minsk, they work not only at the specialized Vitok enterprise, but also at the Minsk Automobile Plant, the Minsk Tractor Plant, the Minsk Vavilov Mechanical Plant. According to Natalia Shcherbova, these enterprises not only created specialized jobs, but also have sign language translators who help in communication.

“Citizens feel the support of the state that they are not alone with their problem,” said the head of the department. And such cultural and sports events as the program “In the rhythm of active longevity”, which takes place today, help to find communication, feel the team spirit. For example, today we have three teams: from the Moscow, Lenin and Factory districts. This is not the first sporting event in the city. And every Thursday, people with hearing impairments gather and communicate, share news, their joys and difficulties. This also helps not to feel isolated and successfully adapt to society.

Ministry of Labor: in Belarus, more than 90% of people with hearing disabilities are members of the NGO “BeloG”