We are pleased to offer sessions on the virtual Sensory Champion Training half day course, provided by ECL sensory team.

Due to the limited number of spaces available on these sessions, there is a max of 2 staff members per provider and are open to those who provide a service in the Essex County Council Local Authority area. 

Course Information

Our training is an invaluable opportunity to learn directly from those living with sensory loss. Our trainers encourage participants to explore any preconceptions they may have, ask the awkward questions and ultimately instil confidence and break down barriers.

The term sensory is used by us in relation to sight , hearing and dual sensory (deafblind) loss.

We hope you will join us in making the world a more sensory friendly and inclusive place by using your learning to make small but impactful changes to the way you work.

 Course content includes:

• types and causes of sensory loss.
• communication.
• barriers and isolation.
• assistive equipment and technology.
• accessible environments.
• practical solutions (including in relation to services during Covid).
• support available to people with sensory loss.

 This Sensory awareness training course is your gateway to the Sensory Champion Community and your continuing sensory awareness journey.

Upon completion of the course, you will have the option to become a

Sensory Champion and join our wider community of Champions. This gives you access to our Champion network meetings and newsletters through which we share good practice, latest news and information, and also offer additional bitesize training sessions to continue your learning.

 The Role of the Sensory Champion

The Sensory Champion role has been developed by ECL Sensory Service in response to identified need from Health & Social Care providers and the retail and business community.

The role definition and training content have been co-produced with providers and people with lived experience of sensory loss who use your services.

Sensory Champions are members of staff who have completed the Sensory Awareness training course and share their learning across their service to improve patient experiences and outcomes.

The aims of the Sensory Champion project are to:

• create more sensory friendly and inclusive services and communities.
• better support people who have sight and hearing loss.
• increase identification, referrals and signposting to sensory services.

 To book your place on any of the sessions, please fully complete the booking form, selecting your preferred date/time and return to quality.innovation@essex.gov.uk