Here And Now

Deafblind Awareness Week is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the unique experiences of people living with both hearing and sight loss. There are more than 450,000 deafblind people in the UK, and while deafblindness can affect people of all ages, including children and young people, it is more common among older adults as both hearing and sight loss become more prevalent with age.

At The Ear Place, we are committed to supporting individuals with hearing loss and helping to create a more inclusive and accessible community for everyone.

This week,  take the time to learn more about deafblindness, recognise the challenges many people face, and celebrate the resilience, independence, and achievement of the deafblind community. 

What is Deafblindness?

Deafblindness is a combination of hearing and vision loss that affects a person’s ability to communicate, access information, and interact with the world around them. The condition exists on a spectrum, with individuals experiencing different levels of hearing and sight impairment. 

There are two different types of deafblindness:

Congenital deafblindness is combined hearing and sight loss present from birth or early childhood, affecting communication, learning, and development.

Acquired deafblindness develops later in life due to conditions such as Usher syndrome, age-related hearing and sight loss, or illness and injury.

Because every person’s needs are different, support and communication methods can vary significantly.
 

Why Deafblind Awareness Matters

Many of the barriers faced by people with deafblindness are not immediately visible. Everyday activities such as communicating with others, accessing information, attending appointments, or travelling independently can present additional changes.

Deafblind Awareness Week aims to:

• Increase public understanding of deafblindness
• Promote accessibility and inclusion
• Highlight available support services 
• Encourage equal access to healthcare, education, employment, and community life

Greatness of awareness helps create communities where everyone can participate with confidence, independence, and dignity.

For individuals living with sight loss, maintaining good hearing health is especially important. Hearing often becomes a vital source of information, helping people stay connected, communicate effectively, and navigate their surroundings safely. 

Regular hearing assessments can help:

• Detect hearing loss early
• Monitor changes in hearing over time
• Identify opportunities for treatment and management
• Support communication and overall wellbeing
• Improve access to hearing technology and specialist support services

At The Ear Place, we understand that every person’s hearing needs are unique. Our team is committed to providing personalised care, clear communication, and ongoing support to help patients maintain their hearing health and independence.

How Can You Support Someone Who is Deafblind?

Ask Before Assisting

Always ask whether help is needed and how you can best assist. Avoid making assumptions about what someone can or can’t do.

Communicate Clearly

Introduce yourself when approaching someone, speak clearly and naturally, and ask about their preferred method of communication. Some individuals may rely on hearing aids, assistive listening devices, tactile communication, or other support methods.

Make Information Accessible

Consider providing information in large print, braille, digital formats, or accessible audio formats where appropriate.

Be Patient and Respectful

Communication may take additional time. Being patient, understanding, and open to different communication methods can make a significant difference.

Support Deafblind Charities

Organisations such as DeafblindUK, Deafblind International, and Sense provide invaluable support to deafblind individuals and their families. Supporting these charities helps them continue their vital work and improve the lives of those they serve.
 

Supporting Awareness in 2026

During Deafblind Awareness Week, we encourage patients, families, and the wider community to learn more about deafblindness and the importance of accessible communication and inclusive services.

Awareness begins with understanding. By recognising the challenges faced by people with deafblindness and making small changes to improve accessibility, we can help create a more inclusive society for all.

Whether you're concerned about changes in your hearing, looking for advice on hearing health, or seeking information about hearing support services, visit your local The Ear Place or book an appointment today. Our team is here to help you stay connected and hear with confidence.