Hearing Loss Awareness Badge Survey Insights
Late last year we conducted a survey to explore preferences for hearing loss awareness badges. We wanted to find out what you, the people with hearing loss thought, so we could create badges that effectively communicate your needs and help enhance understanding and accessibility in everyday interactions.
Survey Overview
The survey, promoted through social media posts, emails, and shares by third-party organisations, offered participants a chance to win a signed copy of Hear & Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss by Shari Eberts and Gael Hannan.
We received over 60 responses, which we were very pleased with.
Sharon from Penrith, NSW was the winner of the book. Congratulations, Sharon!
Key Findings
1. Preferred Wording for Badges
You were asked to choose your favourite phrasing for hearing loss awareness badges. The results showed a preference for clear, straightforward language:
- 24 votes: “Please speak clearly. I have a hearing loss.”
- 14 votes: “Hard of Hearing. Speak clearly facing me.”
- 7 votes: “Please speak clearly. I am Hard of Hearing.”
16 respondents suggested alternative wording, emphasising themes like clarity, politeness, or humour.
A comment was made that the “hearing loss” portion in the options should come first.
2. Badge Shape
You showed a slight preference for rectangular badges with a circular badge not far behind:
- 31 votes: Rectangular badges.
- 26 votes: Circular badges.
- 4 votes: Square badges.
3. Fastening Preferences
Convenience and flexibility were key factors in your badge fastener preferences, but you gave us a quandary for our first order with magnetic clasps only edging out a choice of either by one vote
- 26 votes: Magnetic clasps.
- 25 votes: Option for both magnetic and pin fasteners.
- 10 votes: Pin fasteners only.
4. Additional Comments
We also asked a series of open-ended questions, which revealed several recurring themes:
- Visibility: Many of you highlighted the importance of large, high-contrast text for readability. Bright or contrasting colours were popular, though some expressed concerns about specific colour combinations (e.g., yellow on white).
- Design: Suggestions included incorporating symbols like an ear with a line through it or fun elements like cartoons to make the badge more engaging and less stigmatising.
- Mixed Adoption: Some respondents noted reluctance among individuals with hearing loss to wear badges, citing concerns about stigma or drawing attention.
- Practicality: Respondents emphasised the need for badges to be comfortable, versatile, and easy to store when not in use.
5. Personal Connection
The survey found that 49 of you had hearing loss, underscoring the relevance of creating an effective badge design that resonates with the community.
Summary of Preferences
Based on the survey results:
- A rectangular badge with the wording “Please speak clearly. I have a hearing loss” emerged as the most popular choice, with a relevant comment made to change the order of the statement.
- A magnetic fastener was preferred for ease of use, though many also appreciated the flexibility of offering both magnetic and pin options.
Emerging Themes and Considerations
The survey results highlight a diverse range of preferences and thoughtful insights that will inform the next phase of badge development. Key considerations include:
- Inclusive Design: Ensuring badges are accessible, visually clear, and available in multiple styles to suit different preferences.
- Encouraging Adoption: Exploring creative and fun design elements to reduce stigma and increase usage.
- Optionality: Positioning badges as a helpful tool rather than a mandatory accessory.
- Considerations: We also need to consider the final size of the badge and the size of text to ensure legibility at an appropriate distance.
BHA will work on translating these insights into designs that balance the desire for impactful solutions with practicality, legibility and cost-effective production.
Our ultimate aim is to create a desirable badge that helps promote awareness and support for individuals with hearing loss.