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Lipspeakers

Learn how a lipspeaker helps deaf people and people with hearing loss communicate and how to book one.

Lipspeakers are used by people who are deaf and prefer to communicate through lipreading and speech. They repeat what’s said without using their voice, so others can read their lips easily. 

They produce the shape of words clearly, with the flow, rhythm and phrasing of speech. They also use natural gestures and facial expressions to help people follow what’s being said. 

Lipspeakers should have a break about every 30 minutes. For assignments that are more than 2 hours long, you should book 2 lipspeakers. 


Getting the right lipspeaker

Lipspeakers are regulated by the National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People (NRCPD).

Registered lipspeakers must maintain confidentiality and stay completely impartial.

With over 200 communication support providers in the UK, it’s important to always choose one that only uses registered communication professionals. That way, you can be confident that the communication professional has the relevant qualifications, knowledge, and skills. 

If you would like support in choosing a new provider then Action Deafness, the leading deaf-led charity in the UK, and who we have previously partnered with, are our recommended provider. The experienced bookings team at Action Deafness will work with you to facilitate single or repeat appointments and connect you with fully qualified and experienced communication professionals. 

To find out more and to make a booking please visit Action Deafness or email enquiries@actiondeafness.org.uk.


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Contact us

If you are deaf, have hearing loss or tinnitus and need free confidential and impartial information and support, contact RNID.

We’re open 8:30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Page last updated: 30 October 2023

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