SUPPORTING DEAF CHILDREN
AND THEIR FAMILIES
IN DORSET
Welcome to the Dorset Deaf Children's Society website. We are a registered charity who organise events and activities to enable children and young people with a hearing loss, parents and families to meet each other and share their experiences and also have some fun!
We provide grants and equipment for children with a hearing loss and their families and also provide information to help families make informed choices for their children's education and welfare.
Membership is free for all families with a child or young person with a hearing loss living in Dorset or for supporters of children and young people with a hearing loss and their families living in Dorset.
If you wish to join Dorset Deaf Children's Society
please contact Shirley Sorbie on 01202 571089
or email info@dorsetdcs.co.uk
for a DDCS membership form.​
If you become a member of National Deaf Children's Society that does not make you an automatic member of
Dorset Deaf Children's Society and vice versa.
We have seperate memberships.
To view the DDCS Mission Statement please click on this link:
View the DDCS Constitution - voted in at the 2009 AGM. Click on the link to the right.
In line with The National Deaf Children's Society guidelines the Dorset Deaf Children's Society have adopted their Safeguarding Policy. The policy is based on NDCS guidelines and can be accessed by clicking on the link to the right.
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The person responsible for implementing these guidelines is Katie Bray, Safeguarding Officer
To view the DDCS Privacy Policy please click on this link:
To view the DDCS Equality and Diversity Policy please click on this link:
To view the DDCS Complaints and Feedback Policy please click on this link:
To view the DDCS Social Media Policy please click on this link:
We are associated with the National Deaf Childrens Society.
To view their website use this link - http://www.ndcs.org.uk
RESOURCES
Please see below links to NDCS support information for families. Select the link for the information you wish to access and this will take you directly to the NDCS website where you can download, read or print the information you need.
Please be aware that once you have accessed 5 documents on the NDCS website, you will be asked to register with NDCS. This process does not take long and is well worth it as there is a host of information and support available that you may find useful.
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There are many more documents and useful information available directly at the NDCS website
Language and communication
In this section we explore different approaches to communication; spoken language, sign language and sign bilingualism. We have also included a list of the things you need to consider, and questions you may want to ask the professionals you work with. Also additional needs and supporting your child's learning.
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Education and Learning
Resources and guidance to help you support your deaf child's education, learning and choices from the early years through to their teens, including childcare options and choosing a deaf-friendly school. Also Bullying, Resources for Teachers and Creating Good Listening Environments.
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Products and Technology
Products and technologies are an important part of modern everyday life and can help with everything from waking up in the morning to communicating with others or watching a film with subtitles.
In this section you will find information about the wide range of products, apps and equipment that might be helpful to deaf children and young people at home, at school or when socialising with friends. Also LENA and Relay Services
Parenting and Family life
Having a deaf child in the family can bring many joys and challenges. In this section you'll find some useful resources, advice and support on the day-to-day experiences of bringing up a deaf child, as well as our popular Families magazine. Including emotional, health and well being, family blogs and parenting a deaf child.
Being Deaf Friendly
Every deaf child or young person is different. Levels of hearing loss, communication methods and use of hearing technology can vary widely. It’s important to remember this and find out what everyone’s individual needs are so you can make sure everyone is included in whatever you are doing together.
Information for Professionals
NDCS produce a wide range of resources for professionals who work with deaf children and young people, whether in education, health, social care, or to support transition into adulthood. You can also find out about our services for professionals, including consultancy, training, conferences and our roadshow workshops.