• Selecting and training young dogs which have the right temperament to work as hearing dogs.
• Matching hearing dogs to deaf and hard of hearing recipients. Ensuring the recipient can really benefit from a hearing dog, as well as being able to look after them.
• Maintaining regular contact with hearing dog recipients and re-homing dogs which don’t quite make the hearing dog grade.

   Hearing Dogs for Deaf People also work to raise awareness of the role of hearing dogs in helping deaf people to lead independent lives. Events include a programme of speakers, as well as activities in schools.

   For an assessment and a visit contact the local branch.

  Sign Language Interpreters have undergone training that enables them to assist with communication between deaf and hearing people.

   They will:

• Interpret between British Sign Language and spoken English
• Give information on issues relating to interpreting
• Keep all information of appointments/meetings strictly confidential
• Enable a deaf person to access information, resources and services directly

• Give advice or take sides

   Borders Deaf Awareness Group a local group promoting deaf awareness in the community. Offers advise and support to hard of hearing people and can give presentations or talks to groups.

   For more information visit the Borders Disability Forum Web Site:
Borders Disability Forum Deaf Awareness Group Page

   The Borders Deaf Club meets monthly in the Ability Centre, Galashiels.

   For more details of the club visit the Borders Disability Forum Web Site:
Borders Disability Forum Deaf Club Page

   The Deaf & Hard of Hearing Social Worker offers specialist assessment, information and advise about deafness. Environmental equipment to help daily living is available following assessment e.g. TV amplifiers and loop systems. A range of leaflets and booklets about local and national resources can be provided; for example, lip reading, sigh language, local clubs and general information on communication and managing deafness.

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