Webmaster: These comments are the result of a written survey (Braille and large print), which was sent to deaf-blind attendees of the 2001 Georgia's Deaf-Blind Access of the South Camp. Generally, an SSP (Support Service Provider) is a person who guides a DeafBlind people and assists them in some task such as shopping, eating at a restaurant, reading mail, or attending a meeting. Although interpreting is usually not included in this role, the AADB Convention combines the roles of interpreter and SSP under the label of SSP.
Attitude
Being helpful
Being patient
Being willing to adapt
Having a good positive attitude
Being flexible
Establishing trust and friendliness
Being willing to help
Time
Be available to work
Skills and knowledge
Wear right color clothing (contrasting with skin tones)
Interpreters who also do SSP duties
Provide all information to deaf-blind consumer when shopping so that the consumer can make his own decisions
Follow what deaf-blind consumers says
Have basic communication skills
Have information on Deaf-Blind culture
Describe the environment
Give orientation to new environment
Have clear voicing skills
Don't mumble
Don't use perfume
Don't abandon the deaf-blind person
Respect privacy; money is private
Don't influence deaf-blind to purchase things
Transportation (O&M)
Provide transportation Use good sighted guide techniques
Other issues
Sometimes Vocation Rehabilitation may pay for training
More workshops to train SSPs
Scheduling of SSPs
Knowing how to contact SSPs
State should train SSPs
SSPs should be paid
Attitude
Don't be overly dependent on SSP
Be willing to participate and be active
Enjoy and have fun
Learn from others
Be patient
Don't be demanding
Have a positive and good personality
Be friendly and kind
Skills and knowledge
Be assertive
Advocate for self
Have a Deaf-Blind identification card
Have good communication skills
Be a good role model by paying for lunch and/or gas
Don't use perfume
Have a list of SSPs
Know what you need
Negotiate time
Speak up
Ask for assistance
Express yourself
Reach out to other deaf-blind people
Other issues
Good with computers
Be a member of AADB to get directory of SSPs