It is predicted that by 2020 the number of people with sight loss in the UK will rise to over 2.2 million. As we get older we are increasingly likely to experience sight loss. 1 in 5 people in our community aged over 75 and 1 in 2 people aged over 90 are living with sight loss. 2 million people in the UK have hearing aids but 4 million people experience hearing difficulties every day.  As with sight loss, hearing loss increases with years.

Sensory loss affects not only the ability to see or hear but impacts on other senses such as taste or touch.  This can negatively impact daily living activities and mental health. Social isolation as a result of sensory loss is the biggest challenge we are facing in our community. This affects not only the individual but also their partners, family, carers and friends.

LJWB Sensory Services supports people in our community to remain as independent as possible.  We offer access to appliances that help make the lives of people with sensory impairment easier, offering one to one support work, monthly socials, befriending, hearing loop and all of our activities are open to those with sensory loss. We can also offer regular contact via phone calls, texts or touch talk through our friendly Listening Line Volunteers. In addition we offer support for those caring for people with sensory loss via our Carers Support Groups.

Our Hearing Aid Drop-In is held every other month, enabling people to come along to the Community Centre and have their hearing aids cleaned and repaired without having to go to the City Centre based hospitals. We also offer replacement batteries for those who are eligible (please contact us to discuss further)

Our Sensory & Disability Support Officer can be contacted on 0113 268 4211

In addition our newly formed Family Support Service can offer support to children and families who are living with sensory loss.  The service also includes 1:1 support, social activities and carer support.