Sensory Support
People who have visual impairments or who are deaf or hard of hearing may access superior services available from Inspire. The Sensory Support Team has significant quality in experienced and qualified staff who provide a wide range of services.
The Sensory Support Team provides services across the borough to people with visual and hearing impairments. Most of our work takes place in the community, but we also have a drop-in session every Monday morning 9am-11am at Bexley Civic Offices
Assessment – The team will meet with you to discuss your visual and/or hearing needs. We will then suggest ways in which we can assist, such as advice and information, rehab, equipment or other services.
Aids and adaptations – We can provide a number of aids and adaptations to improve and maintain independence. This can range from alerting devices for the doorbell, phone or fire alarm, to task lamps and reading and writing aids. All equipment is on long term loan and is issued according the council FACS criteria.
Mobility – Mobility training for people with visual impairments can enable a person to achieve independence outdoors and indoors. Using long cane and other techniques, a rehab worker can teach the route to work, college or other essential places.
Rehab – Rehabilitation for people with visual and hearing impairments can enable greater independence with everyday tasks, as well as learning new skills. Following an assessment of needs, a rehab worker may suggest attendance on a rehab course or workshop, or rehab at home.
Debt and benefit advice – This is a relatively new service for people registered deaf or blind. assistance with DLA forms and appeals can be given, as well as advice and advocacy from a qualified benefit and debt advisor.
Communication support – The team has an in-house British Sign Language interpreter, as well as access to several freelance interpreters. The interpreter can be booked for medical and legal appointments. Communication support, and advocacy is available for appointments where more assistance is needed, such as benefit or housing appointments. There are 3 team members with NVQ3 BSL, and a commitment for others to learn or improve.
Volunteer Service – Volunteers can be arranged for people with visual impairments for help reading correspondence and befriending.
Specialist Learning Disability Service –Through our partnership with KAB, the team can provide a specialist assessment and services for people with learning disabilities and visual impairments.
Deafblind Services – This is a relatively new and developing service. The team have recently started a specialist deafblind assessment, for anyone with sight and hearing difficulties. This acknowledges the unique difficulties encountered by someone with dual sensory loss. Other services will be available in the future.
Advocacy and support – Support and advocacy is available for people with all types of sensory impairment. We provide help with attending some appointments, family and other complex issues.
