by Kate Ramsden

John Nisbet

Congress condemned the unacceptable use of the term "deaf and dumb" in relation to deaf people and called on the General Council to challenge this offensive language and consign it to the dustbin of history.

Speaking in support, John Nisbet, UNISON disabled members' group told congress ""Deaf and dumb" is an archaic term that is considered highly offensive and derogatory.

"Given the long history of deafness and the fact that some deaf people have been incorrectly assumed to be mentally deficient because they do not speak, you can imagine that most do not appreciate this terminology.

"It is not about being politically correct but is a recognition of a person's right not to be verbally abused," he said.