Questions and common myths
Clear answers, with links to more detail when you need it.
Questions families often ask
Will a hearing aid or cochlear implant mean my child hears everything?
No. Devices can improve access to sound, but children may still miss speech or need communication support. Ask the team about access in noise, distance, language understanding and fatigue.
Can my child use BSL and speech?
Many children and families use more than one language or approach. There is no single route that fits every child. Discuss accessible language now and review the support as your child grows.
Are BSL and Sign Supported English the same?
No. BSL is a language with its own grammar. SSE uses signs alongside spoken English and follows English word order. Ask what language or approach is actually being provided.
Does a screening pass rule out every hearing concern?
A screening result is not a guarantee about hearing for life. New concerns deserve a conversation with a health professional. An OAE test alone does not determine hearing levels.
Does glue ear mean there is no need for support?
No. Temporary hearing loss can affect access too. Ask how your child will be supported while hearing is monitored or treatment is discussed.
Do we need an EHCP before school can help?
No. Education settings can provide SEND support without an EHCP. Discuss the current support and whether an EHC needs assessment should be requested.
Does deafness automatically qualify a child for DLA?
No. DLA depends on the eligibility rules and the extra care, supervision or qualifying mobility needs. Use the official guidance and describe the child’s actual needs.
Can Birkdale pay back costs we have already incurred?
The Trust’s April 2026 guidance says grants cannot be retrospective. Read the guidance and apply well before funds are needed.
Who currently provides my child’s audiology in Stockport?
Check your latest appointment letter and ask who holds the referral. Published NHS and HealthHarmonie contact routes differ. The directory explains both; it does not assign your child to a provider.
Can anyone directly book Deaf CAMHS?
The published referral route is through a professional working with the child or family. Ask the service or a relevant professional about eligibility. Use urgent services when support cannot wait.
Is this an NDCS website?
No. This is an independent Stockport family information project. NDCS is listed only as an external resource and support option.
Can I join the WhatsApp group now?
Applications are not yet open. The independent administrator and contact route need to be confirmed. You can prepare your answers on the community page, but they are not sent yet. Once requests open, the administrator will review the answers and send approved families a private WhatsApp invitation.
Can I send my child’s reports through this website?
No. The site does not accept medical documents, school reports or case records. Contact the relevant service directly using a verified route.
How do I know whether information is current?
Guides and directory entries show a check date and link to the organisation responsible for the information. Check appointment arrangements, eligibility, deadlines, fees and event details directly before relying on them.
Three assumptions to question
| Assumption | A better question |
|---|---|
| “They can hear me, so they understood.” | What did the child understand, and what language or explanation was accessible? |
| “They are quiet, so they are coping.” | Can the child explain how the situation feels, and are they included? |
| “One approach works for every deaf child.” | What meets this child’s language, learning and relationship needs now? |
Sources and further reading
Links go to the organisation responsible for the information. Practical prompts on this page are suggestions for family conversations.
- Hearing aids and implantsNHS · Checked 1 October 2026
- Cochlear implants for childrenGreat Ormond Street Hospital · Checked 1 October 2026
- Spoken language and communication approachesNDCS, external resource · Checked 1 October 2026
- BSL and other sign systemsBritish Deaf Association · Checked 1 October 2026
- Children’s audiology: objective and behavioural testsWest London NHS Trust · Checked 1 October 2026
- Glue earNHS · Checked 1 October 2026
- Extra help and EHC plansUK Government, England guidance · Checked 1 October 2026
- Disability Living Allowance for childrenUK Government · Checked 1 October 2026
- Birkdale grant guidance, April 2026Grant provider, PDF · Checked 1 October 2026
- Stockport children’s audiology service informationHealthHarmonie, service provider, PDF · Checked 1 October 2026
- National Deaf CAMHS: referral informationNHS service provider · Checked 1 October 2026