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Elliot, a young deafblind boy

Sense is running a special TV appeal for our work with children who are both deaf and blind.


You can watch the appeal or read the transcript. Please make a donation now and help us bring a child like Elliot into our world.

Sense is the leading national charity that supports and campaigns for children and adults who are deafblind

Communication modes and aids

A huge range of communication modes and aids are used by deafblind children and young adults. The following list gives only a few examples.

  • non-verbal communication (intentional or unintentional) - includes body movements (including much that may be identified as challenging behaviour), changes in breathing pattern, eye pointing, vocalising and taking others to wanted objects or activities.
  • symbol systems include objects of reference (using objects as symbols, usually for activities), pictures, photos and formal symbol systems such as Bliss symbols.
  • sign systems and languages include British Sign Language, Makaton signing and idiosyncratic sign systems developed by or for a specific person. Signing may be adapted to meet individual needs, for example by restricting the size and spacing of signs ('visual frame signing') or by placing one person's hands over or under those of the other person signing.
  • speech-based methods include clear speech and lipreading.
  • text-based methods include fingerspelling, the deafblind manual alphabet, large print, Braille and Moon.
  • Total Communication is an approach using a wide range of different communication methods.
  • communication aids include HACs (Human Aids to Communication, such as interpreters and intervenors) and switch-operated electronic communication aids

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