About local groups
Local groups are run by parents and carers of deaf children, working together with local health and education professionals. They give emotional and social support to families with deaf children, and give deaf children the chance to meet outside of school.
What is a local group?
Local groups are all very different. Some groups have dozens of members, paid staff and a permanent office. Other groups are very informal and meet occasionally for tea, coffee and a chat. Most local groups are somewhere in between; they meet regularly throughout the year and organise occasional activities for deaf children and their families.
The kinds of activities that local groups organise vary widely and reflect the interests of the group's members. Most local groups organise social activities for children (like parties or trips to local attractions), and many have youth groups, information days, and organise sign language classes. Get in touch with your nearest group to find out what they get up to!
All local groups are run by a committee of volunteers. These are usually parents of deaf children, working with local professionals to support other families in their area. Although NDCS works closely with local groups, each group is independent and organises its own social activities and fundraising events.
What if there isn't a local group in my area?
Local groups are started by all kinds of people and for all kinds of reasons. Some are set up by a professional who works with families with deaf children and who want to put parents in touch with each other. Some begin with a single family who would like to meet other people in a similar position. Others start with a small group of parents who want their children to meet other deaf children.
If there isn't a local group your area, and you are interested in getting involved in setting one up, please get in touch with the Local Group Team on 020 7014 1140 (voice) or email us at localgroups@ndcs.org.uk
