Information for families in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Hearing and Vision Support Services

Hearing and Vision Support Services logo

How the services work

The Hearing Support Service (HSS) works with children and young people with mild to profound hearing impairments.

The Vision Support Service (VSS) works with children and young people with mild to profound visual impairments.

Both services have a team of specialist advisory teachers with qualifications in visual or hearing impairment. All teachers can support:

  • children and young people
  • families
  • pre-schools
  • schools and colleges

Who the services work with

The services work:

  • in partnership with parents and carers to agree support and involvement
  • with education, social care and health services
  • with each other

The HSS and VSS are often referred to as one service, Hearing and Vision Support Services (HVSS).

The services are available across Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. They can work in:

  • family homes
  • playgroups and nurseries
  • schools and colleges

What else the services offer

Hearing Support Service

The HSS also have:

  • an educational audiologist who works closely with NHS audiology services
  • a sign language tutor who works and uses signs with the children, families and settings

Vision Support Service

The VSS offers:

  • keyboarding tutors
  • mobility and habilitation specialists
  • a technician

Equality and diversity

The services make sure children and young people with hearing and/or visual impairments:

  • have every opportunity to enjoy life in their communities
  • have their needs met and respected
View all details
Venue/Contact Details
Education and Learning
County Hall
Colliton Park
Dorchester
Postcode
DT1 1XJ
Area coverage
Pan Dorset
Directions
See Journey Planner on right-hand side of this page, where you can view bus, car and train routes from your location.
Times and Costs
Opening times:
Please visit our website for more information.
Further opening details:
  • Afternoon
  • Morning
  • Evening
  • Daily
Availability
  • All Year Round
Costs:
This is a free service
Ages, Booking Details and Referral Information
Ages:
From 0 years to 25 years
Booking Information:
Booking is not required.
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