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Nissan Sunderland Plant Embraces Sign Language For Deaf Teammate Inclusion
Nissan Sunderland Plant, known for its teamwork, has taken a unique step to support its deaf employees. The entire production zone has learned sign language to ensure seamless communication. This initiative was rolled out at the request of the team and plans are in place to extend signing training across the plant.
Peter Haydon, a Senior Supervisor in the Paint Shop, explained the challenge: "Four of our team are deaf, which made communication a challenge for our supervisors and our team on the production line. More than anything else, we want all our people to feel included and part of the team, so we carried a full review and one thing that everyone wanted to do was learn to sign."
Initially, ten team members, including Peter, attended an eleven-week course to learn basic sign language. Peter added: "Learning sign language wasn’t easy… It was hard to pick up at the start and you really need to stay focused. But the team all wanted to learn and chucked themselves into the training and said that by week six they started to get the hang of it. It has been really inspiring to see members of the team who went on the course teach others in the shop how to sign."
To further support communication, visual aids were introduced for activities like training, meetings, and briefings. Despite their growing skills in sign language, interpreters are regularly brought on site. Micheal Connolly, one of the deaf operators, shared his experience: "In the past there has been a breakdown in communication due to a language barrier; part of the barrier has now been removed. Morale between the team is much improved and it’s been fantastic to see the team so enthusiastic about learning sign language."
Michael Jude, HR director at the plant, highlighted their ongoing commitment: "We’ve had deaf operators before and have of course made adjustments to make their workspaces safe and practical. But this team has four deaf people, and as a group they wanted to go a step further. It’s a fantastic example of our people pulling together and going that extra mile to support each other."
The Sunderland Plant's initiative underscores its dedication to inclusivity and effective communication within its workforce. This effort not only enhances teamwork but also ensures that every employee feels valued and capable of performing their best.
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