Children who are born deafblind face enormous challenges. Finding out about the world around them, learning to communicate and making relationships will be an immense struggle.

Despite this, deafblind children and young people do learn, develop and achieve - provided they, and their parents, receive the right support and adjustments. They are entitled to enjoy the same opportunities as any child - to play, to learn, to make choices and to join in the life of their community.

The Government has recognised the needs of deafblind children in recent guidance to local authorities. The guidance requires local authorities to provide specialist assessments, appropriate information, one-to-one support and services designed for deafblind people.

This Charter describes four key areas where direct action will change the lives of deafblind children and young people for the better.

We will work to ensure that:

1. Pre-school deafblind children are given the support they need to play, learn and develop.

Early childhood is a crucial time, when children learn an enormous range of new skills – including the ability to communicate, use language, and be part of a family. Deafblind children need extra
support to learn, develop and use these skills.

2. Deafblind children are given the chance to take part in the life of their community.

Community activities offer deafblind children the chance to make friends, learn skills, and
participate in society. Offering adjustments such as improved lighting, accessible venues and one-to-one support can transform the life-chances of a deafblind child.

3. Deafblind young people can participate in activities with people of their own age.

All young people develop their sense of themselves by mixing with people their own age. Many deafblind young people will need extra one-to-one support, plus other adjustments – such as
support with travel – to join in the same activities as their peers.

4. Deafblind children and young people receive information in a way that suits their needs.

Deafblind children and young people need information to participate in, and make sense of, the world around them. Some will use sign language, simple English, or pictures, others will require braille or large print. And some will need another person to explain things to them.

For more information, visit www.sense.org.uk/reachout.