Deafblind services
There are four basic groups of deafblind people, although some people may feel they don't fit into any group.
- Congenital deafblindness -People who are born deafblind or who become deafblind within a very short time after birth are classed as congenitally deafblind. This may be caused by a condition such as Rubella (German Measles) or illnesses such as meningitis. There are many causes of congenital deafblindness, these are just two examples.
- People who are born deaf or with a hearing loss and later lose their sight.
- People who are born blind and later lose their hearing.
- Acquired deafblindness -This is by far the largest category of deafblindness with approximately 75% of people with a dual sensory loss falling into this group. People may lose their sight and hearing gradually over a period of time or others may lose one or the other senses suddenly.
What do we do?
We carry out statutory assessments to identify the impact of what having a dual sensory loss may have on a person's ability to manage their daily living needs safely.
We provide a service using qualified communicator guides to support deafblind people to develop new ways of maximising their independence.
This can include enabling people to access local shops and facilities, basic cooking skills, learning new communication methods, supporting people at appointments and meetings.
We provide short term interventions to deafblind people and their carers to improve service user confidence and self esteem by giving them advice, information and self support strategies.
The communicator guide team can provide awareness and practical skill training on managing deafblindness to families, carers, professionals and staff within residential and nursing homes.
You can contact us on:
Voice: 0344 800 8020
Textphone: 0344 800 8011
Fax: 0344 800 8012