What started as a frustrating interaction between police officer and a young man who is deaf, has turned into an exciting collaboration and opportunity for enhanced, inclusive communication.
Today, the Regina Police Service, Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (SDHHS) and the Regina Open Door Society (RODS) unveiled a new communication tool aimed at helping everyone involved during a police traffic stop. The communication card features simple icons and phrases that will assist both officers and members of the public who are deaf or hard of hearing or whose preferred language is not English.
The icons on the cards will allow officers to explain the reason for the traffic stop and what they need the driver to do. It will also allow the driver to communicate with the officer. All patrol and traffic officers will carry the cards in their vehicles. They are also available at several other locations like the SDHHS, RODS and at the Regina Police Service. A digital version is available online that can translated into 103 languages, for those whose preferred language is not English. A QR code on the printed card links to this digital version.
If more support is needed, contact information for translators and interpreters is printed right on the card.
The creation of this card is a great example of how working together we can create a more inclusive city and, in turn, a safer city. Following his initial experience that inspired the card, the young student from Winston Knoll Collegiate and his teacher connected with their School Resource Officer to explain what had happened. A relationship was built and the communication card we are launching today is a result of that.
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