Dissertation

And so the nightmare of dissertation begins.

I know the topic, I know the background - I need the data. This is the most difficult part of any research project: finding people to take part or, rather, finding the right people to take part.

Any help would be hugely appreciated.

The research is looking into Deaf and hearing people's experiences of the legal system, to compare whether they are getting the same treatment. In addition to this, I have already written a paper about the experiences of one Deaf man in the legal system back in the 1970s, before interpreting standards were introduced, before the Human Rights Act, and before the DDA. So, I can also see whether things have improved for Deaf people over the past 30 years.

In order to carry out this research I need two groups of people to contrast: one hearing, one Deaf. Deaf participants need to be preferred-language BSL signers, and everybody must be:

• A UK citizen
• An adult over the age of 18
• A victim of crime since 2003, resulting in police or (if it got that far) court action.

Victims of violent crime need to think very carefully before volunteering as it may be distressing recounting traumatic events.

All participants will take part in a 40-60 minute one-on-one interview in which they will be asked to describe the crime, the actions of the police and courts, how they felt about the proceedings, and what support they were offered. All interviews will be transcribed and anonymised, so no one will be able to identify them.

The BDA are helping to advertise for Deaf participants as the research will go to them at the end to help their advocacy department raise awareness of inequalities and prepare Deaf people for entering the legal system.

But, essentially, I still need a lot of help. So, if you think you know anyone, Deaf or hearing, who might fit the criteria and be willing to volunteer, I’d be really grateful if you could pass on the information. Interviews will be held over June and July - as soon as possible really.

You can contact me through my academic e-mail address.