Although a number of disability organisations have been invited to give evidence at the Health Select Committee's inquiry into the future of social care, the focus has been on personal care needs.
Richard Brook, Chief Executive of Sense said:
"Sense is disappointed not to have been called to give evidence to the Health Select Committee today, in its inquiry into the future of social care services. We hope this does not mean the needs of sensory impaired people will be ignored. Their needs are very different from those with physical disabilities. In the context of an ageing population, ignoring sensory loss is untenable."
Deafblind people can often wash and dress themselves, but need support with access to information, mobility and communication. Without this type of support, deafblind people cannot exercise their rights as citizens.
Without having their basic needs met, deafblind people are effectively trapped in their own homes - unable to exercise, and isolated from their local community. This is damaging for physical and mental wellbeing.
Meeting the care needs of the deafblind community requires providing access to assistance, such as support workers who aid communication.
