As part of the support network, the Trust has its own audiology department and employs an audiologist.
The Trust recognises the rehabilitation process of managing and coping with a hearing loss and the use of hearing aids and cochlear implants can be as important as the diagnosis of a hearing loss and fitting of the hearing aids themselves.
Clinical audiologist Jim McHugh is committed to ensuring every Doncaster Deaf Trust pupil, students and resident has access to the best equipment available for their particular needs. Pupils, students and residents are encouraged to make the best use of their residual hearing and contact Jim with any concerns they may have.
The on-site audiology department is a safe and familiar environment. The audiologist has Level 2 British Sign Language qualifications which offers young people the ability to discuss their thoughts, concerns and options in a confidential and private manner without the help of an interpreter.
The department has a small provision of radio aids and sound field equipment available, which can be used in classrooms and the Children’s Home. The use of hearing tests, sound field aided threshold testing (hearing test with hearing aids on), and various speech tests, help shape teaching and care methods to help enhance every young person’s potential.
The department has forged close links with local and NHS audiology departments and specialist cochlear implant centres throughout the UK.
The department strives to ensure every young person has the necessary equipment to maximise their residual hearing and their learning and living experience.