What we do and why

Founded by parents whose deaf children have cochlear implants, the CICS Group was formed to help others whose children already have implants and those who are thinking about cochlear implantation for their deaf child, whether this is unilateral, simultaneous or sequential bilateral.

What we do

  • Offer contact, information and support based on first-hand experience
  • Put families in touch with others who have relevant experiences to share, eg cause of deafness, additional needs, method of communication, educational provision
  • Provide a quarterly newsletter
  • Organise a regular information day
  • Arrange social events for the whole family
  • Organise activity weekends
  • Host a Private Facebook group for members whose children use cochlear implants
  • Liaise with other organisations helping deaf children
  • Provide links with other groups as well as adult CI users and some overseas families
  • Raise awareness of cochlear implants
  • Take part in campaigns and research

Why we do it

Today’s technology is fantastic, but it does not work alone. Emotional support still plays a vital part and this is where the CICS Group can help. Apart from providing information and keeping our members up to date with the latest developments in cochlear implants, we have a large network of families who have experienced many different scenarios and are happy to help others. Through this network parents can:

  • Learn from others who have faced the same issues
  • Gain support and strength from sharing experiences
  • Pick up valuable tips from others on everyday life with a cochlear implanted child
  • Experience empathy and understanding of the good and the not so good

Many young cochlear implant users are now in mainstream education and may be the only deaf student in their school. By coming to CICS events children and teenagers can:

  • Meet others who face the same challenges
  • Share ideas on coping in the hearing world
  • Feel less isolated
  • Make new friends

Siblings, grandparents, extended family members and friends can:

  • See that their cochlear implanted relative/friend is part of a growing community of cochlear implant users
  • Discover ways they can offer practical help
  • Feel more involved

Making contact and networking helps to empower families and their cochlear implanted children to derive the best possible benefit from cochlear implantation.

It’s all about ending isolation and sharing first-hand experience, and…