Sensory impairments

Identifying patients who may be in the last year of life allows for planning on how to support patients and those important to them. One tool used to identify these patients is the Gold Standards Framework ‘surprise’ question: 'Would you be surprised if this patient died within the next 12 months?'

Information about local services

The Heron website has links to information on Norfolk and Waveney support services for people with palliative care. Visit: www.heron.nhs.uk and search for ‘end of life’ or ‘palliative care services’.

Macmillan Cancer Care

Macmillan knows how a cancer diagnosis can affect lives and can help to support you through it. From help with money worries and advice about work, to someone who’ll listen if you just want to talk, Macmillan will be there. Tel: 0207 8407840 Web: www.macmillan.org.uk

Marie Curie (West Norfolk only)

Marie Curie nurses provide care to terminally ill patients in their own homes or in Marie Curie hospices, while offering support to their families. Tel: 0800 0902309 Web: www.mariecurie.org.uk

The initial point of contact for services and support is either through your GP or Norfolk County Council, by email:

information@norfolk.gov.uk

or by calling: 0344 8008020.

If you or someone you care for has a sensory impairment, our Sensory Support Unit can carry out a range of services and early support to help you, or the person you care for.

The main services are:

• Assessments carried out in sign language.

• Equipment and access needs for deaf and hard-of-hearing people.

• Rehabilitation and learning new skills for visually impaired people.

• Provision of low vision aids.

• Assessment and provision for people with dual sensory loss.

• Providing communicator guides to people with substantial communication barriers preventing them from carrying out essential tasks or accessing social stimulation.

All assessments required by sign language users should be referred to the Sensory Support Unit.

If any additional specialist assistance is required, we will carry out joint assessments with the relevant specialist.

Technical support and environmental aids

The Sensory Support Unit provides assessments for people where their hearing causes barriers to communication and daily living needs. It may be able to provide some short-term support or advise you about voluntary organisations that can support you to meet any identified needs.

You may be provided with environmental aids to remove or minimise the difficulties.

Rehabilitation for visually impaired people

Rehabilitation is an early intervention for which you should not need an eligibility assessment. It is a form of reablement for people who have a significant and non-correctable visual impairment to help them live independently.

The team provides mobility training and helps with communication skills and support to manage your domestic needs, such as cooking, cleaning and safety. The rehabilitation team can also provide specific interventions around emotional support and assist you to pursue hobbies and social interaction.

Dual sensory loss

People with little or no sight and hearing find communication extremely difficult and might lack confidence to engage in activities. 