Dublin Zoo Leads the Way with ISL Accessibility for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Visitors

On Thursday 25th September, Dublin Zoo became the first Irish zoo to have Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreted videos for Deaf and hard of hearing visitors available through QR codes.The initiative, in collaboration with Chime, the national charity for Deaf and hard of hearing people, was launched with a visit by Chime’s Dublin Deaf Group and client families, who took part in a wake up experience with Asian elephants and an in-person ISL interpreted talk. The event took place as part of International Week of Deaf People. which runs until Sunday next. “By introducing ISL-interpreted videos, we are endeavouring to ensure our educational message about wildlife conservation reaches Deaf and hard of hearing people in an accessible and meaningful way” said Dr Christoph Schwitzer, Director at Dublin Zoo. QR codes have been provided on signage across Dublin Zoo to enhance the visitor experience for Deaf and hard of hearing people. Scanning the codes will bring visitors to zookeeper talks, featuring an ISL interpreter, on the Dublin Zoo website. There are detailed descriptions of the animals, and their habitats, from their respective Animal Care Teams. The QR codes are being rolled out at the habitats of the Asian lion, red panda, California sea lion, Humboldt penguin, Southern white rhinoceros and Asian elephant. You can find further information and the ISL videos here. Chime has partnered with Dublin Zoo’s Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusivity Working Group around implementation and promotion of the project. The videos were produced by the marketing team at Dublin Zoo, with the support of its Animal Care Teams, and an ISL interpreter, supported by Chime. "Education is at the heart of what we do,” added Dr Schwitzer. “This exciting project helps us connect more deeply with our Deaf and hard of hearing visitors, ensuring they can learn about, and enjoy, what we do. “The initiative is part of our wider campaign to ensure Dublin Zoo provides an inclusive experience.” Danielle Mc Laughlin, Director of Advocacy and Communications with Chime, emphasised the significance of the partnership. "Chime believes in breaking down barriers and making every experience accessible for Deaf and hard of hearing people” she said. “By providing ISL interpretation, Dublin Zoo is not only adhering to the recognition of ISL as a language of the State, but also enhancing the zoo experience for the Deaf and hard of hearing community. “We are proud to work with Dublin Zoo in leading the way on accessibility and inclusion. "The initiative is a critical step in making Dublin Zoo's educational and conservation efforts accessible to everyone, reinforcing its role as a leader in both conservation and community engagement, and we are very pleased to be part of it.”