024 - The Emergency Line 114 for Persons with Hearing Impairments
(the deaf using sign language), HCD, Jordan
C
ONTACT
Higher Council for Affairs of Persons with Disabilities (HCD)
Ms. Alia Zureikat
Jordan
www.hcd.gov.jo/https://
www.facebook.com/HCDJordan https://twitter.com/HCDJORDAN+962 775237654
alia.zureikat@hcd.gov.joO
VERALL GOAL
/
MISSION
The goal of the project is to help persons with hard of hearing/hearing impairments using sign language to live
independently on an equal basis with others by eliminating obstacles and barriers to accessibility in emergency
situations.
T
HE SOLUTION THAT HAS BEEN DEVELOPED
HCD initiated the project in collaboration with the Public Security Directorate (PSD)/
Jordan Command and Control Center (JCCC) for a period of four years. The project includes: 1) training the officers in
the JCCC to communicate using sign language and develop their skills in advanced communication with the deaf. 2)
Developing the ICT system used in the JCCC to accept video calls. 3) Establish a special emergency line (114) that enables
video calls. 4) Conducting a media campaign, including workshops for the deaf community to spread awareness of the
line and train them on the ways in which to use it. This also includes the deaf students in schools as they are considered
a target. The emergency line (114) is considered the best solution as it breaks down barriers to communication for the
deaf. Emergency calls include any difficulty the deaf persons could have with any governmental entity including airports,
customs, and Family Protection Directorate until these entities are trained in using sign language. Therefore, the
usability of the line is widespread and not restricted. This was the most effective solution as most deaf people in Jordan
do have smart phones and have begun using video calls when communicating amongst themselves. In addition, this line
and the workshops the officers in JCCC conduct for the community of the deaf will strengthen the relationship between
the deaf community and PSD particularly concerning deaf students that will enable them to report any act of violence or
sexual harassment made against or towards them.