Post by SensesWA

We recently had the opportunity to support Alpine Care Group through specialised training in deafblind communication and support strategies, delivered by SensesWA Occupational Therapist, Rachel Williams,  and Positive Behaviour Support Practitioner and Deafblind Consultant, Theresa Kirwan. The training focused on tactile communication approaches, including hand-under-hand interaction and on-body communication strategies, designed to support a participant with congenital deafblindness and complex support needs. People with deafblindness experience the world differently. For many, access to information, movement, and connection depends on highly individualised communication approaches that go beyond spoken language or visual cues. This is why targeted training for support teams is so critical. Deafblindness is often misunderstood and under-recognised across the sector, and providers can face challenges due to its low prevalence, complexity, and the need for specialised communication approaches. Building workforce capability is essential to ensuring people with deafblindness can live safely, independently, and with meaningful connection. We would like to acknowledge Alpine Care for their openness and commitment to strengthening their practice in this space. At SensesWA, we continue to work alongside providers, families, and the broader sector to grow confidence and understanding in supporting people with deafblindness.