Volunteers Teaching Sign Language

In Rwanda, up to half a million people are estimated to be living with a disability, many of whom struggle to access health care services. People with disabilities are also more vulnerable to sexual transmitted infections and to experience abuse.  Deaf volunteers supported by VSO have trained 22 nurses and 500 community health care workers on sign language, helping to ensure that deaf people are able to access health services, and that health care providers are able to effectively communicate with patients.

This has led to significant increases in deaf young people within the community being able to understand their rights to access sexual and reproductive health services and protect themselves.