Our Services
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Children's and Family Services
Blind, deafblind and vision-impaired children have vastly different needs from those of adult and senior members of the Foundation. Their education and developmental needs are unique and specific, so the Foundation has a skilled team of staff who work with our young members and their families, seeking to ensure their development is on a par with their sighted peers. The first point of contact is often our Child & Family Social Workers. They provide information, needs assessments, counselling, guidance and support. They also coach and guide young people in self-advocacy techniques, which enable them to access resources, services and further assistance. Other services include:
Recreation for Children
Participating in recreation enables children to gain social and physical skills. It promotes self-esteem and confidence and the opportunity to explore their potential through personal challenge. The Foundation provides information and advice to young members and their families about recreational opportunities and how to engage in suitable activities using everyday and specialist equipment. The service also coordinates group activities and experiences through programmes that link with recreation providers, trained volunteers and community recreation groups.
Developmental Adaptive Daily Living
Developmental Adaptive Daily Living (DADL) refers to everyday activities undertaken by a young person from birth to 21 years. They include: eating and drinking, shopping, dressing, personal care, financial management and using community facilities. Early intervention is essential for the appropriate motor, cognitive and communication skills to be encouraged and developed. Our qualified DADL instructors work with young members to develop the techniques, skills and systems that allow them to lead more independent lives.
Developmental Orientation & Mobility
Developmental Orientation & Mobility (DOM) teaches young people about purposeful movement and provides an understanding of the environment in an age and developmentally appropriate manner. Orientation is the understanding and problem-solving part of moving around an environment. Mobility is the purposeful movement for a desired outcome. DOM is important because it can increase independence, self-esteem and the potential to access jobs and leisure activities of choice.
For further information, please phone 0800 24 33 33.