Deaf or Hard of Hearing

There are over 13,000 people in Denbighshire with some degree of deafness. Deafness is an umbrella term for all types of hearing loss. The effects of deafness and the services needed vary greatly depending on the type, degree and age of onset. However, they all share one major problem - communication.

What Kind of Help is Available?

Equipment to Make Life Easier

People with a hearing impairment can be assessed in their own homes for the provision of special devices such as television amplifiers, loop systems, visual doorbells, text telephones, baby alarms, etc.

Social Work Support

Social Work support is available to people who are deaf or hard of hearing including people who communicate in British Sign Language or Deafblind Manual.

Registration

The Social Services Department is required to keep a register of people with a hearing impairment. Registration is voluntary.

Counselling

We work with other organisations to provide counselling and support for the parents of deaf children.
Interpretation & Communication Services

If you require a sign language interpreter, lipspeaker, deafblind manual interpreter, notetaker or speech to text operator, you can contact the RNID Communication Services Unit. There  is usually no charge for this service if the RNID have funding to cover the area of need e.g. for health appointments or if individual funding can be negotiated by them. A free communication service is available to deaf people contacting Denbighshire Council Departments.

Sign Language & Lipreading Classes

Tuition in British Sign Language is provided in Denbighshire by Llandrillo College. There are also classes in Wrexham organised by Yale College and in Mold organised by Deeside College. There are lipreading classes in Rhyl, Bodelwyddan, Wrexham and Mold. Contact the North Wales Deaf Association for further details.

Clubs & Activities
There are a number of organisations and clubs that provide activities for children and adults who are deaf or hard of hearing. The Social Worker with Deaf People can give you details.

Services for People with both Hearing and Visual Impairments

Difficulties with both hearing and sight are common, particularly in older age. Social workers can provide advice, information and practical help, as can the voluntary organisation Sense.