Deaf service users help shape improvements in Craigavon ED

18th August 2026

Four people stand outside the Emergency Department reception entrance at a hospital. One person in a red uniform holds two handheld pager devices as the group poses beside a large red sign reading “Emergency Department Reception

The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has introduced a new buzzer system in the Emergency Department at Craigavon Area Hospital to support Deaf and hard of hearing patients.

The system was introduced following engagement with the British Deaf Association (BDA) and Deaf service users, whose feedback helped shape a number of changes within the department, including improved signage, screen visibility, Deaf awareness and communication support.

The handheld buzzer vibrates and lights up when a patient is being called, helping to ensure they do not miss being called by clinical staff while waiting in the department.

Jill Green, Ward Manager for Craigavon Emergency Department and a member of the Craigavon ED Safety, Quality and Experience Improvement Project Group, said:

“Listening to patients and learning from their experiences is central to improving the care we provide. We know that busy Emergency Departments can present additional challenges for Deaf and hard of hearing patients, and we want to do everything we can to ensure they feel supported throughout their visit.

“The buzzer system is one of a number of changes introduced as a result of engagement with service users. We are very grateful to the British Deaf Association and the individuals who took the time to share their experiences and help us identify ways to improve the patient journey.”

Person seated at a reception desk hands a handheld buzzer device to a visitor across the desk. Computers, noticeboards and office equipment are visible in the clinical reception area

Nicola Savage, ED Nurse, demonstrates the new buzzer system with service user Claire at Craigavon Area Hospital Emergency Department. The system helps Deaf and hard of hearing patients know when they are being called within the Emergency Department.

Four people stand outside the Emergency Department reception entrance. One person holds two handheld pager devices beside a large red sign reading “Emergency Department Reception

Alice Johnston, Access & Inclusion (Advocacy) Officer with the British Deaf Association; Jill Green, Ward Manager for Craigavon Emergency Department and member of the Safety, Quality and Experience Improvement Project Group; and service users Clare O’Connor and Daria Hangiel at Craigavon Area Hospital Emergency Department following the introduction of a new buzzer system for Deaf and hard of hearing patients.

Two Emergency Department staff are pictured beside a poster promoting access to sign language interpreting services. The poster outlines face-to-face and remote interpreting options and is displayed on a hospital noticeboard with other patient information notices.

Michelle Holdsworth and Aileen Tuohey, Clinical Sisters in Craigavon Area Hospital Emergency Department, with information promoting the British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreting Service and the new vibrating buzzer system for Deaf and hard of hearing patients.

Clare O’Connor, a service user who was involved in the engagement work said,

“The buzzer system will be very helpful for Deaf people attending the Emergency Department. In busy waiting areas, it can be difficult to know when your name has been called. The buzzer will alert Deaf patients when it is their turn, helping to reduce anxiety and making the experience more accessible and inclusive.”

A spokesperson from the British Deaf Association said:

“BDA are delighted to see Craigavon Area Hospital Emergency Department lead the way in ensuring better access for Deaf patients with the introduction of the vibrating buzzer call system. Congratulations to the hard-working team and their dedication to service user input and partnership work.”

The introduction of the buzzer system forms part of the Emergency Department’s ongoing Safety, Quality and Experience Improvement Programme and reflects the Trust’s commitment to making services more accessible and inclusive.

The system will initially be piloted in Craigavon Emergency Department. Feedback from service users and staff will help inform any future rollout to Daisy Hill Hospital Emergency Department and other suitable areas across the Trust.