How our sensory services team can help

We support people who are deaf (sign language users), deafened, hard of hearing or who have a visual impairment. If you are experiencing difficulties with your sight or hearing, or both, you can see one of these specialist workers:

• rehabilitation worker with people who have a visual impairment
• specialist worker (level three BSL) who works with people who are BSL users
• community care assessor (equipment) with people who are deaf, deafened and hard of hearing

What do we do?

We work closely with people who have either low vision or are deaf (sign language users), hard of hearing and their carers.

We will:

• usually be offered a home visit
• talk with you about the kind of help you think you need
• agree together on what would best support you

Some people have both a hearing loss and low vision. These factors are taken into account at the initial assessment stage and, if necessary, the team will work together to offer additional support.

Equipment which may help promote your independence and allow you to remain safe in your home can be demonstrated. Certain items can be issued on free loan basis, subject to assessment. Often you will be signposted to reputable organisations where the equipment we demonstrate can be privately purchased.

Getting an assessment

Once we receive a referral, we will contact you with an introductory letter. This will be followed up, usually by telephone call or another letter offering you a home visit.

All home visits are undertaken by staff who are qualified and experienced in supporting individuals with a sensory impairment.

During the visit we will talk with you about the difficulties you are experiencing and discuss what support may be available to help you achieve your goals. You may find it helpful for a friend or family member to be present.

We will complete an assessment form to clarify needs and agree how these needs will be best met. If required, additional services may be accessed such as Technology Enabled Care. You may be coping well with your visual and or hearing impairment and only require information or advice about certain services.

You may benefit from additional support such as equipment for independent living or short breaks for example to help you retain your independence and improve your quality of life. We will give you more information regarding this during our home visit.

Some people have a dual sensory loss, they have both low vision and a hearing loss. These factors are taken into account at the initial assessment stage and if necessary, specialist workers with people who are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing will work alongside to offer additional support.

Support for carers

Carers are entitled to have an assessment in their own right. Find out more about support for carers.

Find out more

If you are experiencing difficulties with your vision, hearing or have a family member, relative or friend who would benefit from support, please contact us.