Catherine Bailey- Clinical Nurse Specialist NF2-Related Schwannomatosis.

Catherine started work at OUH in 2013 as a CSW on the Neuroscience ward who seconded to do nursing. Catherine has been a nurse on Neuroscience, the Churchill intensive care and Blenheim head and neck ward before becoming a clinical nurse specialist for the NF2 service in July 2024.

Catherine attended the course in Sept 2025  

In early September, OxCERPC ran its pilot Deaf Awareness Course, aimed at helping staff better understand and communicate with patients who are deaf or hard of hearing.

“Before attending the Deaf Awareness Course, I went in with an open mind as to what it would be. I was curious to learn more but didn’t have a set idea of what to expect.

I’m a specialist nurse, and the group of patients I look after have tumours on their hearing and balance nerve. While they’re not usually born deaf, many experience hearing loss — sometimes mild, sometimes severe, and it can progress over time. Because of that, communication is a huge part of my job. I wanted to understand more about what it’s like to live with hearing loss, and how we as healthcare professionals can make their experience easier and more inclusive.”

“I think the biggest impact for me was realising how much small actions can help. Simple things like maintaining eye contact, facing the person when you speak, or reducing background noise can make a real difference.

I also found it really interesting to learn about the different types of deafness, and how not everyone identifies in the same way — some people use sign language, some lip-read, and others prefer written communication. It really highlighted how important it is to ask what works best for each individual!

I’ve already started thinking more about how I communicate with patients who have hearing loss. I make sure I get their attention before speaking, check they can see me clearly, and try to reduce distractions in the room. It’s also made me more confident about asking patients directly what would help them communicate best. Sometimes it’s as simple as writing something down or speaking a little slower — those small adjustments really matter.

I’d definitely recommend it! It’s such an eye-opening experience. Even if you think you already communicate well, there’s always something new to learn.

It’s not just about patients either — it helps you be more aware in everyday situations, whether it’s with colleagues, friends, or members of the public who might have hearing loss.”