COVID-19 (coronavirus): support for deaf children
With the outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus), we want to reassure you that we are working hard to provide as much support as we can to deaf children and their families. We want to make sure that deaf children aren’t facing further barriers and that their families have access to information and resources to support their child.
Information for parents, carers and families
Coronavirus has changed lots of things in terms of support for deaf children. Our blogs provide more information on these changes and how they might impact on your child.
We’re regularly updating these blogs in light of any changes to government advice so please do check back for the latest updates.
- Schools and other education settings
- Support for home learning
- Audiology services and hearing care at home
- Face masks and communication
Information for deaf young people
Deaf young people can get information and support through the Buzz website.
- MindHeart storybook for children under the age of seven, available in different languages
- World Health Organisation story book for children aged 6-11 years, which is also available in different languages
- Coronavirus: a book for children, with British Sign Language interpretation
- Deaf Kidz vs COVID-19 online game with instructional video in British Sign Language and International Sign
- Dave the Dog is worried about coronavirus story in British Sign Language, with English subtitles for children aged 5-11.
- Stay Home Superheroes – short story available animated with spoken English with subtitles or in BSL with Deaf actors and aimed at pre-school and primary school age children
- AskDeafTeachers, a range of nine short videos in British Sign Language about coronavirus.
Our work
All face-to-face activities have been put on hold due to COVID-19.
We know that, for many, our events and services are a lifeline and that you might be feeling confused and isolated. We are still here to help and support you and our helpline is still running as normal. Please contact us if you are uncertain about anything or need any support.
We’re running a number of online events which you can book onto. You can also visit our information and support section for resources and guidance.
With lots of running and challenge events cancelled or rescheduled, we've created some virtual challenge events for you to take on.
We’re also campaigning to make sure that deaf children and young people continue to receive the support they need.
Do you need free independent advice? Contact the Helpline
Landline: 0808 800 8880
Monday to Thursday 9am – 5pm and Friday 9am - 12:30pm
Free from all UK landlines and major UK mobile providers
SMS: 0786 00 22 888 (SMS)
Monday to Thursday 9am – 5pm and Friday 9am - 12:30pm
Texts are charged at your standard network rate or taken from your monthly allowance
Monday to Thursday 9am – 5pm and Friday 9am - 12:30pm
Contact us by making a free video call with a BSL interpreter
Complete our online contact form at any time and receive a response within 10 days
Monday to Thursday 9am – 5pm and Friday 9am - 12:30pm
Chat to a member of the Helpline team online for free