Kia Ora!

I haven’t been swimming in 8 years. I am a Deaf woman and the
idea of going to an Aquatic Centre is nerve racking.

For me, trying to communicate at the reception, fear of being
judged or dismissed and then actually swimming is terrifying at
times. For me, as a Deaf woman communication barriers are
something I have everywhere, every single day. Therefore I also
have the barrier of anxiety which is just a mixed bag of fun.

My friend who is also Deaf told me she used Cérge last week
which is a new app in town. The app lets you communicate what
you need before you arrive at a business. I loved this idea!!

Because I can now tell the venue I am Deaf before I arrive they can
arrange on their end if they have staff who sign or they will be
ready with another way to communicate like typing or writing.

I am aware not everyone signs and as much as it would be
amazing if everyone did, I am pretty flexible in being able to lip
read, write, type and sign. What I am not flexible in is being
treated less than, with judgement or dismissed as though I’m not
important.

I used the Cérge app to attend Franklin Pool & Leisure, I was
nervous but also happy that the awkwardness was taken away
with me trying to explain I’m Deaf and how to communicate from
the first moment.

I arrived at the venue and Sheryl greeted me straight away! I
already felt relaxed in that moment, she greeted me like an old
friend! Sheryl took me for a tour around the venue, they have a
great pool and facilities. Sheryl spoke clearly and looked at me so I
could lip read. Her gestures were positive and she smiled lots. This
was an incredibly inclusive experience!

I was soooo confident walking around the venue!
I felt seen, I felt heard and I felt like I mattered as a customer.
As I said, I haven’t been swimming in 8 years because of my
barriers! Yet today had encouraged me and has given me the
confidence to be back this week to sign up and e become a
member.

What a game changer!

Nga Mihi

Franklin Pool and Leisure Audio Guide