Deafblindness is a unique disability. Despite what you may think, it is not simply blindness plus deafness. The impaired senses cannot compensate for one another, making it a distinct disability which impacts on the individual’s ability to access information, communicate with others, and develop independence and mobility. This means that Deafblind people require specialist support provided by a trained MSI Intervenor. But what is an intervenor, exactly, and what does their role involve?
What is an Intervenor and what do they do?
An intervenor is a trained professional who acts as the “eyes” and “ears” of a person who is deafblind, providing specialised communications services and support.
What does the role of an Intervenor involve?
The intervenor works consistently with the Deafblind person to facilitate access, reduce their likelihood of becoming socially isolated and support them in connecting with their world. The Deafblind person is likely to have some useful residual vision and hearing but needs to be taught how to use the information they are receiving through their distance senses effectively.
The intervenor will also support them in learning how to integrate this with all the other sensory input they are receiving, including tactile, haptic, kinaesthetic, olfactory and gustatory. Without this, there is a real risk of them functioning at a level which is far below their capabilities.
The role of the Intervenor spans both home/community settings and educational settings, thereby offering access to visual and auditory information and access to communication. This works to facilitate relationships with others and promote the independence of Deafblind people. By providing sensory access to learning and activities, intervenors help Deafblind people adapt to the many environments around them.
The motto of intervenors is “To do with and not for!” as this allows the Deafblind person to have confidence and a sense of agency!
Seashell’s Sensory Training
Here at Seashell, we offer our very own sensory training program to help people support Deafblind people. Our course offers you the knowledge from experts in Deafblindness, as well as in-person experience at our campus in Cheadle Hulme, South Manchester.
If you’re keen to help transform the lives of children living with complex sensory conditions, we are excited to support you in your learning!
How Seashell can help
Seashell Trust is a UK-leading disability charity and specialist in supporting children and young people with complex difficulties, disabilities and additional communication needs. We have harnessed this unique expertise to create a range of specialist assessment, support and disability training services that we provide to families and organisations across the education, health and care sectors.
To find out more about what we do and who we are, don’t hesitate to get in touch on 0161 610 0100 or email us at info@seashelltrust.org.uk.
Written by Veena Ramrakhiani.
Qualified Teacher of Multi-Sensory Impairments/ Deafblindness; Seashell Sensory Support Team
Find out more about our popular Intervenors Course here.
