A note on language: Over the years there have been many ways to describe people who may have sensory needs, such as those who are blind, partially sighted, or those who are D/deaf or deafened. In this Practice Guide we have used language to be in-line with the our Sensory Needs service. However, when working with someone it is best to ask how they like to be described, and use this language when working with them. 

Sensory Needs Service

The Sensory Needs Service supports anyone over 18 who resides in Camden, to live more independently. The service is there to support, train and advice, depending on their circumstances. If eligibility criteria are met, then the team will offer a person-centred needs-based assessment and, if appropriate, rehabilitation training, equipment, advice, and referral onwards to other specialist agencies. 

The eligibility criteria are as follows:  

• certified or registered as blind or partially sighted 
  
• Must have non-correctable sight loss in both eyes 
• are D/deaf or hard of hearing 
• have both a hearing and sight loss  

• struggling with daily living activities or at risk of injuries because of their sensory loss
  

If you are looking for information about young people and children with sensory needs, please visit the CYPDS (Children and Young People Disability Service) page on the children’s Practice Guide.  

How to refer into the service:

There will be specific referral criteria, depending on what part of the service you are referring into.  

If you are referring into the visual part of the service, you can view the referral criteria and further information here.

If you are referring into the D/deaf part of the service, you can view the referral criteria and further information here.

If you are referring into the Deafblind part of the service, you can view the referral criteria and further information here.

When a referral is received, the team will call you check the appropriateness of the referral. After this is done, they will contact the hospital the person is being treated.