Sex Education’s inclusivity:
The final season of the much-loved Sex Education was released on the 21st of September 2023. The season has been an incredible success since its initial release back in 2019. The comedy-drama series follows Otis Milburn, a socially awkward teen who is navigating his way through the complexities of high school. The series successfully promotes a message that is built on self-love and inclusivity.
The much-awaited 4th season slightly differs from previous seasons as it follows a new set of students. It is obvious that the producers of Sex Education are striving to tell the stories of all. One of the new students, Aisha, is played by Deaf actress, Alexandra James. Aisha plays an integral role, as one of the popular students at Cavendish College. Throughout the season, producers have made an effort to highlight the everyday challenges that are faced by deaf people across the globe, including the difficulties of lipreading and the importance of clear speech.
The everyday challenges faced by the deaf community are illuminated during episode 7 of Sex Education Season 4. Episode 7 successfully addresses the fundamental needs of some students. The episode really highlights the notion that accessibility should be a given. During episode 7, the fire alarm goes off. Indeed, for most people, they can rely on their sense of hearing to alert them to the issue. However, as the show highlights, deaf people cannot rely on the alarming sound. During the episode, as the alarm sounds, Aisha’s classmates all evacuate the room, leaving Aisha behind. Unfortunately for most deaf people this is their reality and undeniably, a deeply isolating experience. The episode teaches a lesson- namely, many schools and institutions rarely notice such challenges until they are forced to recognise them. It doesn’t take much, and some simple reasonable adjustments can make all the difference.
Here is a list of some reasonable adjustments that can be made to make communication flow and safety a guarantee:
- Installation of accessible fire alarms- including technological solutions such as pager systems and flashing alarms.
- Emergency text messaging- Deaf people may not be able to hear emergency alert announcements. To resolve this, emergency text messaging should be set up as an alternative.
- Create a listening environment which limits background noise, which can often interfere with hearing aids and cochlear implants.
- Speak one at a time- Those who lip read, such as Aisha in Sex Education, will find it difficult to keep up with a group discussion. Speaking one at a time ensures understanding for all involved in a discussion.
If you are a business owner or a leader of an institute, we urge you to make these adjustments to ensure safety and normality for all.
Good luck to Alexandra James in what we know will be a very successful acting career.
