disability etiquette
Breaking the Ice with Disabled People
Interacting with disabled people can sometimes feel a bit intimidating for some, whether it’s on a personal level or in business. The worry of saying or doing something wrong can often take over. This fear, usually rooted in not wanting to offend, can lead to people avoiding conversations entirely.
Don’t Overthink It
Talking to someone with a disability doesn’t mean switching up how you act or speak. Just be yourself. Starting a conversation might feel awkward, but steering clear altogether can come across worse than getting it slightly wrong. Most disabled people (yes, the vast majority) care more about the intention behind your words than nailing everything perfectly. Don’t let the fear of upsetting a tiny minority hold you back from connecting.
Top Tips When Meeting Disabled People
When meeting someone with a disability, the golden rule is simple – treat them as people first. Use their name, and talk to them like you would anyone else. Don’t make assumptions about their abilities or limitations. Instead, take the time to understand who they are. Casual, open-ended questions like “What have you been up to lately?” or “What’s your take on [insert topic here]?” always work well.
Not all disabilities are visible, and people aren’t defined by them. Show the same respect and kindness you’d offer anyone. If you’re unsure whether they need help, just ask. A quick “Would you like a hand with that?” is polite and thoughtful. It’s perfectly fine if they say no.
Clear communication is key. Always speak directly to the person, not to their friend or interpreter. Avoid patronising tones or jumping in to finish their sentences. That just gets awkward fast. Everyday phrases are fine too. Saying “See you later” to someone who’s blind, for example, is completely okay.
If you’re chatting with someone in a wheelchair, consider sitting or kneeling for a more comfortable conversation (if it feels natural, of course). And if they have a working assistance animal, let it do its job. No stroking, no distractions – that furry assistant is on duty.
The Bottom Line
Disabled people are just people – with their own talents, strengths, and quirks like everyone else. Treat them with the same dignity and respect you’d want for yourself. Don’t jump to conclusions about their abilities. By doing this, you’re creating a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone feels valued. It’s really that simple.
Meeting People with Hearing or Speech Impairments
When talking to people who are deaf or hard of hearing, don’t shout—it’s not helpful. Instead, make sure you’re standing where they can see you clearly. If you need to get their attention, a gentle tap on the shoulder or a small wave will do the trick.
Ask how they prefer to communicate. Some might rely on lip-reading, but keep in mind it’s not foolproof and can be tiring. Speak at a steady pace, enunciate clearly, and use gestures or facial expressions to help convey meaning. Position yourself so your face is well-lit, and never cover your mouth—this makes it harder for them to understand.
For some deaf people, British Sign Language (BSL) might be their main language. It has its own grammar and structure, which is different from English. When speaking with someone with a speech impairment, be patient. Don’t interrupt, correct them, or finish their sentences. If you don’t understand something, it’s okay to ask for clarification—don’t just nod along pretending you get it.
Meeting People with a Visual Impairment
When interacting with visually impaired people, start by introducing yourself and letting them know who else is nearby. Mention where everyone is so they can orient themselves.
Resist the urge to grab their arm to guide them. Instead, offer yours and let them decide if they want assistance. Ask if they’d like you to point out obstacles like steps or doorways. If you’re helping them to a seat, describe where it is or gently guide their hand to the back of the chair.
It’s absolutely fine to use everyday phrases like “See you later”—they won’t be offended. But remember, they might miss non-verbal cues like facial expressions or gestures, which can sometimes lead to confusion. For example, they might not laugh at a joke simply because the context wasn’t clear, not because they didn’t get it.
