New UK-wide Support Programme for Deaf Children

Family Fund and National Deaf Children’s Society have launched a new UK-wide support programme for deaf children.

The partnership will provide over £400,000 in funding for assistive technology and British Sign Language (BSL) learning to support families of children with hearing loss aged 11 and under.

The new programme will support around 600 families across the UK, funding vital technology to support children’s hearing and communication needs, alongside BSL courses to help families communicate more effectively and support their child’s development.

By supporting both technology and language learning, the programme aims to remove barriers to inclusion and enhance the lives of deaf children and their families.

Family Fund will deliver the programme on behalf of the National Deaf Children’s Society, combining Family Fund’s expertise in grant delivery with the charity’s specialist knowledge of deafness, family support and inclusion.

“We’re delighted to partner with Family Fund in supporting families with deaf children who would benefit from extra support,” said George Crockford, Chief Executive at the National Deaf Children’s Society.

 “Many families experience delays or barriers to securing the essential support that their deaf children need. Now we can reach out to them with immediate support at a crucial time in their children’s development.

“This partnership with Family Fund supplements our vital work and will enable us to get targeted support to deaf children and their families when they need it most.”

Applications can be made through the Family Fund, the UK’s largest charity providing grants and services to families raising disabled or seriously ill children.

Families, professionals and organisations supporting deaf children are encouraged to share information about the programme to help ensure eligible families are aware of the support available.

For further information visit https://www.familyfund.org.uk/