Foster care service providers will be aware of the concerning projection that by 2025, there could be as many as 100,000 children and young people in the care system. This will have many consequences. Some can be anticipated, others not. It is likely to mean that the proportion of children in Foster care with a disability will increase – perhaps significantly. In this series we examine one type of disability: deafness. And the preparedness, or otherwise, of foster carers to provide the right care for children suffering hearing loss.
Background.
Firstly, a definition: “the term “hard of hearing” is generally used for people who have mild to severe hearing loss—while the term “deaf” mostly designates those who have profound hearing loss.” (World Health Organization).
The World Health Organization has warned that Around 2.5 billion people around the world – or one in four people – will by 2050 be living with some level of hearing loss. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director General, stated in 2021:
“Our ability to hear is precious. Untreated hearing loss can have a devastating impact on people’s ability to communicate, to study and to earn a living. It can also impact on people’s mental health and their ability to sustain relationships.”
Any child coming into foster care is likely to have had their world turned upside down. They will be feeling confused, uncertain, and probably worried. Some might even feel a sense of panic. The experience can only be more isolating when a child is deaf. Imagine having all those feelings and being unable to hear whilst coping with unfamiliar surroundings: extremely challenging. And, of course, it is a major challenge for the foster carer as well.
It is thought that the number of deaf children in foster care is low. The precise numbers, according to the National Deaf Children’s Society, are unknown. But the possibility exists that a foster carer may at some point in their career be asked to accept a deaf child – if only on a short-term basis. That makes it important for a foster carer to have a basic understanding of what deafness and hearing loss entail. The level of a child or young person’s hearing loss will be based on definitions described by the British Society of Audiology. They are based on decibel (dB) hearing ranges –
- mild;
- moderate;
- severe;
- profound.
Some causes of hearing loss and deafness.
The Prenatal Period –
- Intrauterine infection.
- Genetic factors.
The Perinatal Period –
- Birth asphyxia (oxygen deprivation during birth).
- Low-birth weight.
- Hyperbilirubinemia (severe jaundice during the neonatal period).
Childhood and adolescence –
- Meningitis or other infections.
- Chronic ear infections.
- Collection of fluid in the ear.
Children affected by hearing loss will have specific needs. Work has been done by the Society to obtain the views both of foster carers and children who are deaf. The main worry expressed by foster carers was a lack of information about preparing for the arrival of a deaf child.
In the next blog we cover the kinds of things that need to be considered in the first few hours or days of a placement. And where to find help and advice when needed. First of all, a foster carer needs to think about the degree of deafness a child/young person has. The term ‘deaf’ is used by the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) to apply to all grades of hearing impairment in children. This will cover partial and complete loss of hearing. Included will be anyone who refers to themselves as having a hearing loss, hearing impairment, or being deaf. It also includes children suffering from glue ear. Hearing loss can affect one or both ears resulting in problems hearing conversation.
The child’s social worker should be able to connect the foster carer with the local Children with Disabilities or Sensory Team for more guidance about deafness. Other professionals may also be involved and have a history with a particular child or young person. These could include a specialist teacher of the deaf or medical specialist. Foster carers should ensure they have asked for all relevant contacts from the foster child’s social worker.
To find out more – visit the UK’s independently-run deaf blog and news site http://limpingchicken.com/2013/08/15/deaf-news-were-you-fostered-tomorrows-deaf-foster-kids-may-need-your-help/
Consider a career in fostering with Rainbow
Rainbow Fostering Services Limited are looking for family and individuals able to provide a loving, caring home. Foster carers offer support in a safe and welcoming environment. Being a foster carer also means being there to help a child with all the different aspects of their daily life. Taking young children to school, showing an interest and enthusiasm in all the hobbies and activities. Even taking them on holiday!
The decision to foster should not be taken lightly. There are, of course, many challenges but also many unique rewards. Rainbow have been rated ‘Outstanding in all areas’ meaning you can rely on high-quality training and support from our team of committed professionals. We pay our foster carers generous allowances. And our specialist therapeutic training programmes offer foster carers the chance to qualify for enhanced payments.
Most importantly, we are always here to listen – whatever the problem or issue – 24/7, 365 days a year. Start your fostering journey today by simply calling 0330 311 2845.
Anyone contemplating becoming a foster carer will need to have a spare room to accommodate a child or young person. You can foster whatever your status (single, married, divorced, separated), ethnicity, religion, or sexual orientation, We look for people who are highly motivated and dedicated to supporting and guiding a vulnerable child or young person to reach their full potential.
Our FAQs page is extremely popular as to provides answers to most of the questions we get asked about fostering.http://rainbowfostering.co.uk/frequent-asked-questions/. From our blog series we suggest – http://rainbowfostering.co.uk/foster-sibling-groups/
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