What is CHSWG
This is a group of representatives made up of different professionals (such as audiologists, hearing screeners, teachers of the deaf, speech and language therapists) working in Devon with deaf and or hard of hearing children and young people and their families.
Parents and families are represented by Parent Reps and a representative from the NDCS – National Deaf Children’s Society, who also attends and provides a national overview.
CHSWG is responsible for improving services for families and children by listening to them, taking their views into account and by ensuring that recommendations from national initiatives and Quality Assurance (QA) are met. It offers advice, guidance and exerts influence in order to ensure high quality services. It also acts on behalf of service providers at a practitioner, managerial and strategic level.
When does it Meet
The group usually meets three times a year during term-time to share experiences, ideas, and actions for improving the lives of deaf and or hard of hearing children, young people, and their families throughout the county. The meetings usually last for around 3 hours and since the Covid-19 outbreak these meetings have moved online, which has enabled improved attendance.
How parents can be involved
There are various ways that parents can be involved. Feedback about services can always be given to any professional working with your child at any time, which can be shared in meetings.
Become a Parent Representative
If you would like an opportunity to have your voice heard and represent other families at CHSWG meetings, why not become a Parent Representative? As a Parent Rep you’ll get to meet other parents and professionals who are keen to influence services on behalf of families.
For more information about this group please contact Glenn Chamberlain – Team Lead for Sensory Needs & Physical Difficulties (Qualified Teacher of the Deaf) at glenn.chamberlain@devon.gov.uk