Assistive technology
Discover the wide range of specialist technology products available to support deaf children and young people.
Assistive technology can support deaf children and young people with communication and help them gain greater independence at home, in education and at work. Many of these technologies can be used alongside hearing aids and implants.
At home
Technology that can encourage independence and safety in the home.
In education
Technology that can be useful in early years settings, school, further education and beyond.
At work
Technology that can be useful in different workplace settings.
Out and about
Technology that is useful on the go, during sports and activities, or when on holiday.
By product
Alarm clocks
Deaf-friendly alarm clocks wake up deaf children and young people using vibrations, lights or sound.
Alerting systems
Alerting devices help deaf children and young people live more independently and be aware of what is going on around them.
Apps and services
Apps and digital services, such as text and video relay, can support deaf children and young people with everyday tasks.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth technology allows wearers to wirelessly stream audio and music directly to their hearing devices.
Doorbells
Deaf-friendly doorbells use flashing lights, adjustable volumes, or video features to alert deaf people when someone is at the door.
Fire alarms
Fire alarms can alert deaf people in the event of a fire using vibrations and flashing lights to keep them safe.
Headphones
Some headphones have distinct features that make them more suitable for deaf children and young people.
Loop systems
Loop systems wirelessly transmit audio directly to the telecoil that is integrated in most hearing aids and implants.
Radio aids
Radio aids help deaf children and young people hear more clearly over distances or in noisy environments, like classrooms.
Soundfield systems
Soundfield systems provide clear and consistent sound throughout a room to help improve the listening conditions.
Streamers
Streamers connect to devices such as computers, phones and televisions to send audio wirelessly to hearing aids or implants.
How to get assistive technology
If you're looking to get assistive technology, your local authority or social services may be able to help with funding. If not, there are other funding sources available that could help you with the costs.
Full references for this webpage are available by emailing
informationteam@ndcs.org.uk