Members area

Loading...

Register

Don't have a login?

Join us

Become a member

  • Connect with others through events, workshops, campaigns and our NEW online forum, Your Community
  • Discover information and insights in our resource hub and receive the latest updates via email
  • Access one-to-one support and tailored services which help reduce barriers for deaf children
Donate
Open Search popup
Menu Open mobile desktop menu

Glossary: G

Gene

A section of a DNA molecule in a cell that carries the instructions, or code, for making a protein.

Genetic counselling

Covers a range of services provided by a clinical genetics service. This can include specialised testing to investigate the cause of your child’s deafness, or it can be a detailed discussion about the results of genetic testing and what they mean for your child and your family.

Genetic counsellor

A member of the clinical genetics team who is trained in clinical genetics and counselling. Genetic counsellors support families through decision-making and provide information about genetics and genetic testing in a clear way so that you can feel well-informed about what this means for your family.

Genetic testing

A blood test used to look for a gene or genes known to cause deafness (although occasionally saliva may be used instead). There are different types of genetic tests, but the routine test now offered to investigate genetic causes of deafness is a ‘genetic panel test’. This looks at over 100 genes known to cause deafness. However, not all genes that cause deafness have been identified yet. This means that even if deafness is inherited, it may not be possible to confirm this with a genetic test.

Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) – Scotland

The Scottish Government’s approach to supporting all children and young people in Scotland. This framework is used by all public services and agencies to make sure that children and young people’s wellbeing needs are met. It requires that services aimed at children and young people work together and streamline their systems and practices.

Glue ear (otitis media with effusion)

A common childhood condition where fluid builds up in the middle ear, making it harder for sound to travel from the outer ear to the inner ear. This can cause temporary conductive deafness, which may come and go.

GP (general practitioner)

Also known as your family doctor. If you’re concerned about your child’s hearing, your GP can refer you to an audiology clinic or specialist for further tests or treatment.

Grommets

Small plastic tubes which can be surgically inserted into a child's eardrum as a treatment for glue ear.