Registration for people with a hearing loss or people who are d/Deaf

What is registration?

Hampshire County Council holds a register for people with hearing loss or people who are d/Deaf. If you are registered then your details are stored on a confidential database and you are given a small card as proof of your registration. It will not cost you any thing to register.

How do I become registered?

Should you wish to register then a hearing loss specialist from the Sensory Team or the Deaf Services Team (for Deaf people who use Sign Language) can organise this for you.

Within hearing loss there are three main categories under which you might be registered

• Hard of Hearing (e.g. prescribed hearing aid)
  This term is used for people who are partially deaf/partially hearing and have a mild, moderate hearing loss. People who are hard of hearing usually wear hearing aids and will some times use lip-reading to aid communication. This type of hearing loss can be the result of illness, injury or it can be age-related and can vary in severity. It might be acute or it can be the result of a very gradual loss over time.
• Deaf (speaking/lipreading)
  Someone who was born hearing but has lost their hearing as a result of illness, accident or old age. They may wear hearing aids but generally face to face communication is essential
• Deaf (signing/writing)
  Usually refers to people who are sign language users and part of the Deaf Community

The Sensory Team does not work with people in the Deaf community. Deaf British Sign Language users who require information/advice and support should contact the Deaf Services team in Winchester.

What are the benefits of being registered?

Registration can be a pathway for easier access to certain benefits and concessions such as

• The offer of discounts or assistance at some leisure venues such as museums, arts centres and theatres – please inquire with individual venues
• Getting a Disabled Persons Railcard
• Being exempt from paying VAT on purchases of specialist hearing loss aids and equipment such as amplified telephones, specialist alarm clocks and doorbells. This applies when purchasing from recognised sources of such equipment – please see the section Buying Specialist Equipment.

However all concessions are discretionary and may vary.

What do I do if my registration card has expired or I need a replacement?

Registration cards currently last for five years. If your card is about to expire or you need a replacement then please telephone Adult Services on 0845 603 5630 who will take your details and pass them on to the relevant team.