Considering the Deaf Perspective: Insights of a Hearing Researcher Working with Deaf Participants

This Case Study discusses the complexities and considerations of working with an interpreter to authentically capture the Deaf voice as well as the broader challenges of interviewing Deaf individuals while honoring Deaf culture. The original research explored the factors that support Deaf athletes in accessing and advancing within elite Deaf sport. It also aimed to identify the key challenges Deaf athletes encounter in their participation and progression. To gather insights, semi-structured interviews were chosen as the most effective method. Of the four participants, three communicated orally, whereas one used British Sign Language (BSL). The first author (RF), who is hearing and has basic sign language skills, obtained consent from the BSL-using athlete to involve their team interpreter to facilitate communication. This Case Study provides valuable guidance for researchers seeking to undertake further work within this community, particularly in elevating Deaf voices in research and embedding allyship as a core principle of inclusive practice