The introduction of newborn screening for hearing has identified a number of babies with a unilateral hearing loss. Parents and children with a unilateral hearing loss face unique challenges. Professionals are finding that being told your baby has a hearing loss is a difficult and emotional time for parents irrespective of the degree or type of hearing loss. However, children with a unilateral loss receive minimal early intervention or assistance at school and their parents require specific support and information.

Aussie Deaf Kids with Unilateral Loss aims to provide a supportive environment where parents can meet online and discuss the challenges and successes with other parents in a similar situation. Children with a unilateral loss face different challenges to children with a bilateral loss and we are trialling a separate discussion group. Parents are a child’s best advocate and a child with a unilateral hearing loss needs well-informed parents to ensure that their needs are met – socially, emotionally and educationally.

Experience with our PHIDCOZ group has indicated that parents prefer an environment which is for parents only. Online groups can take some time to build numbers but strong, cohesive and supportive groups do emerge over time. Welcome!