This is despite reports showing that there are approximately 4 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the country.
Stakeholders lamented that patients and victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence are often assisted by their immediate family members, teachers, church leaders or even friends. They believe it is not advisable for such individuals to act as interpreters during court cases, as they are not equipped to handle legal matters, which could compromise victims during court proceedings.
There are no SA Sign Language interpreters at police stations, hospitals, clinics, doctors’ rooms, courts or even at the banks. Deaf people have a constant struggle. Deafinitely offers counselling to deaf people who have experienced different forms of trauma, including that emanating from the death of a loved one, loss of employment and rejection from society.
“The level of physical and emotional abuse that exists in the deaf community is high. It therefore requires SA Sign Language interpreters at every level to ensure that their cases are adequately reported and appropriate action is taken,” said Ndebele.Justice department spokesperson Steve Mahlangu explained that “there is an efficient internal process which notifies the departmental language service of the need for both foreign and SA Sign Language services well in advance.