Description
Who we are:
The Cochlear Implanted Children’s Support Group (CICS) was set up in 1993 to help families whose children would benefit from being fitted with a cochlear implant.
CICS is run by volunteers and parents who recognise that “there is no one approach that will suit all children”.
It is the only national voluntary charity for families who’s:
- child already has a cochlear implant and
- for those considering a cochlear implant for their deaf child
What we do:
We offer first-hand experience of the difference that cochlear implantation can make to the lives of deaf children and their families.
We can help with issues that surround life for a child that has or is being considered for a cochlear implant.
We aim to provide advice and support pre and post implantation through peer support.
- Offer contact, information and support based on first-hand experience
- Put families in touch with others who have relevant experiences to share, eg cause of deafness, additional needs, method of communication, educational provision
- Provide a quarterly newsletter
- Organise a regular information day
- Arrange social events for the whole family
- Organise activity weekends
- Host a members’ Facebook page
- Liaise with other organisations helping deaf children
- Provide links with other groups as well as adult CI users and some overseas families
- Raise awareness of cochlear implants
- Take part in campaigns and research
For parents:
The group offers parents opportunities to:
- Learn from others who have faced the same issues
- Gain support and strength by sharing experiences
For Young people:
Many young cochlear implant users are now in mainstream education and may be the only deaf student in their school. Attending CICS events helps children and teenagers:
- Meet others who face the same challenges
- Share ideas on coping in the hearing world
- Feel less isolated
- Make new friends
Record Last Updated on: 25/10/2018