Rights of Deafblind People​

On 1st April 2015, the Care Act, 2014 came into force with specific reference to deafblind people and their carers’. The guidance is now mandatory. It is stated in the regulations that every deafblind person has the right to:

• A specialist assessment facilitated by a person who has specific training, expertise and experience (6.92)
• Fluctuating needs – establishing the frequency and degree of fluctuation and consider the person’s wellbeing (6.58 & (6.136)
• Care plan input by a deafblind specialist (10.85)
• Access to information and advice (6.4, 6.22)
• In the market shaping guidance it mentions communicator-guides being available to address the issues faced by this unique, hidden disenfranchised group of people
• There are many variations of systems used to arrive at personal budget amounts, ranging from complex algorithmic-based resource allocation systems (RAS), to more ‘ready reckoner’ approaches. Complex RAS models of allocation may not work for all client groups, especially where people have multiple complex needs, or where needs are comparatively costly to meet, such as deafblind people. (11.23)

Our Assessors​

All DBE Specialist Assessors have been trained with the Level 3 RQF qualification requirements as stated in the Care Act 2014 and receive Director level mentorship. This is to ensure that your rights and needs are being met at the highest standard possible.

If you'd like to become a qualified specialist assessor, apply to the training course

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Outcomes of a Specialist Assessment​

A specialist assessment is fundamental in understanding an individual’s needs, once identified they can be signposted to relevant professionals and support agencies and receive crucial recommendations that assist by reducing the impact that comes with sight/hearing loss. If the sight/hearing loss is likely to deteriorate, the annual review will inform specialists of any changes and update any ongoing services they have in place as well as updating their person-centred care plan. All assessments, care plans and annual reviews will be carried out by our qualified and experienced Specialist Assessor team.

Need a specialist assessment?​

If you believe that you are entitled to a specialist assessment or require an annual review, please contact us for more information. Please mention if you are a professional or carer, seeking information on behalf of a person with sight and hearing loss.