Angmering the next stop for Listening Bus

Run by the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS), the bus is visiting The Angmering School on Wednesday, from 10.30am-3.30pm.

It is packed with the latest technology to aid communication and awareness of important sounds within the home, including vibrating alarm clocks, flashing doorbells and video and text phones.

Experienced NDCS staff will offer demonstrations and answer questions on all aspects of deafness from children, parents and teachers.

Hugely popular

The Listening Bus first set off in June 1996 and its huge popularity led to it being replaced by a new version in 2004, with updated technology, a toy area for younger visitors and a quiet room where parents and professionals can talk to the NDCS staff in greater privacy.

Since 1996 the bus has travelled approximately 160,000 miles and welcomed more than 56,000 visitors.

Damian Ball, NDCS roadshow co-ordinator, said: "The right technology and equipment can make a huge difference in improving a deaf child's communication, confidence and independence, as well as helping them learn at school.

"It's great to be able to give deaf children a chance to have a 'real' telephone conversation with their friends and family on the bus. Often they have never tried a specialised phone with the volume boost or the 'T' switch facility before. It's wonderful to see their faces light up and to hear them chatting and listening with ease."

Parents with concerns about their child's hearing can contact the NDCS Freephone Helpline on 0808 800 8880 (voice and text) or e-mail [email protected] open 9.30am'“5pm Monday to Friday, or access the website at www.ndcs.org.uk

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