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Dual Sensory Impairment

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Services available

People with a dual sensory loss may find it difficult to communicate with other people, find out information, and access everyday places, transport and events.

Below are some services that are currently available (communicator-guide; volunteers; equipment and getting around) that may assist a person with dual sensory loss.

Communicator Guides

The Communicator Guide works on a one-to-one basis with the person, enabling them to communicate effectively with other people, access written and environmental information, and helping mobility through escorting the user to different locations. The Communicator Guide visits the person in their own home, and may read correspondence, assist with bills, forms and telephone calls; or may accompany the person on activities such as shopping, visits to friends, clubs and appointments, acting as a guide and communicator. They support each person to be as independent as possible. Communicator Guides work with individuals for a number of hours each week, depending on the level of support that is required by each person.

Volunteers

A Volunteer Guide Help Scheme is designed to provide specialist ‘befriender’ support to people with dual sensory impairments. The volunteer would offer support to an individual by enablling them to do tasks such as shopping, reading correspondence or the newspaper, or simply having a chat to reduce the person’s isolation.

Who qualifies for the service?

Anyone living in the county of Worcestershire, who has a significant vision and hearing loss, affecting communication, access to information, and/or mobility. It is important to stress that people do not have to be totally blind and profoundly deaf to qualify for this service.

Who do I contact?

Individuals can be assessed for this service by contacting the Sensory Impairment Team, please call our contact centre for further information.