Providing support where and when it's needed most
'I get the opportunity to be involved in the lives of families who are struggling to know which way to turn. They want to do the best for their deaf child, but face a barrage of red-tape and bureaucracy. It I can help them through all that and the result is a happy family, then I know I've done my job.'
Alison Marrs is one of 26 Family Officers working for the National Deaf Children's Society.
Alison and her colleagues support families at some of the most testing times in their lives. For example, when their baby is newly diagnosed with a hearing impairment or their deaf child is starting school.
One of the main requests from parents is advice on explaining their child's needs to teachers, club leaders and instructors, who may never have come into contact with a deaf child before. If these leaders struggle to communicate, the knock-on effect for deaf pupils is that they might not be able to learn as effectively or make progress as swiftly as their hearing peers.
Find out how Alison was able to help seven year old Imran when he was having problems at his local Leisure Centre.
Alison knows just how much parents appreciate - and rely on - the practical support and understanding she and her colleagues are able to offer:
'Whether it's helping parents to complete forms, supporting them in choosing a school or sign language course, or equipping them to educate others on the needs of their deaf child, what I find most often is that parents are just so glad to be listened to by someone who understands'.
Naturally, many parents are worried about making the wrong choice for their child. And although Family Officers can't make the decisions for them, they can provide the information and support they need.
'For me, the best part of my job is seeing parents as their confidence grows. As their knowledge increases, their child realises they can be just the same as other children' says Alison, adding; 'it is a privilege to be involved with families when they need it most.'