Research honoured by Police Scotland for advancing support for deaf domestic abuse survivors

Heriot-Watt’s groundbreaking research projects, designed to help deaf women who have experienced domestic abuse access essential support, have been recognised by Police Scotland.

Justisigns 2 and SILENT HARM won the EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) category in the latest Police Scotland Chief Constable’s Excellence Awards.

Professor Jemina Napier, Chair of Intercultural Communication at Heriot-Watt University, attended the ceremony held at police headquarters in Tulliallan along with Lucy Clark, a deaf survivor researcher who played a critical role in both projects.

Professor Napier is a leading expert in the field of sign language interpreting and translation, and is at the forefront of Justisigns2 and SILENT HARM. The projects were among the first UK research efforts to document the unique experiences of deaf women surviving domestic abuse and communicating via interpreters.

Justsigns 2 oversaw the development of a British Sign Language (BSL) glossary of key terms for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in the UK. The glossary includes 33 terms, providing their definition and a suggested sign (or more than one sign, or a combination of signs) for the term in BSL. It was developed in collaboration with Police Scotland’s Domestic Abuse Coordination and Equality Units and involved detailed discussions of the meaning of various terms from the legal perspective and the lay perspective, whilst identifying how to convey information clearly and visually in BSL.

Using materials developed as part of Justsigns 2, SILENT HARM delivered specialist training workshops to police officers and sign language interpreters in rural areas of Scotland and Ireland. This effort ensured officers and interpreters understand best practices for working together and to empower deaf women who have reported domestic abuse.

Both projects have been instrumental in removing barriers and ensuring deaf female survivors of domestic abuse get the support they need.

Commenting on the Police Scotland award, Professor Napier said: “I’m incredibly honoured that our research has been recognised by Police Scotland, but more importantly, I hope this award shines a light on the urgent need to improve access to support for deaf survivors of domestic abuse.

"Too often, these women face barriers that prevent them from seeking help, whether it’s a lack of accessible information or reliance on interpreters who may not be trained in trauma-sensitive communication. Justisigns 2 and SILENT HARM are about breaking down these barriers, ensuring deaf women are heard, understood, and supported. This recognition is a step forward in raising awareness and driving real change for an often-overlooked community."

Domestic abuse within the deaf community is complex with unique challenges for victims seeking help or escaping abusive situations. This can include communication barriers, lack of access to appropriate resources and a reliance on abusers for communicating vital information and support.

The collaboration projects embody Police Scotland’s dedication to breaking down these barriers whilst promoting equality and empowerment. Their work continues to evolve and transform, advancing accessibility and inclusion for the deaf community.

Chief Constable Jo Farrell said: “Every year, these awards highlight the bravery and excellence that is shown day-in and day-out throughout Scotland. They remind us all of the incredible work our colleagues and members of the public do to keep our communities safe and thriving, often putting themselves in the face of danger to save someone else.

“Reading the nominations, powerful illustrations of bravery and inspiring examples of skill, professionalism and dedication, has been a great pleasure and a real highlight of my year.

“I want to congratulate all the winners and nominees for the valuable contribution to our communities and policing.”

The annual Excellence awards recognises individuals and teams across Scotland.