Code: F01
What is the Network?
As well as the local Sense Branches (see S07), there is a national network of families across the UK. This network, which has been created and is led by families, enables people to get to know and support each other, share information and have fun. It gives families a greater voice within Sense and with other service providers. The Network was launched in the summer of 1997.
Who is the Network for?
The Network is for anyone who has an interest in deafblindness:
- parents with deafblind children
- brothers and sisters of deafblind people
- parents who are deafblind and their children
- people with Usher and their families, and people who have become deafblind later in life
- grandparents
- friends of families, and of Sense
- volunteers
- staff
... in other words everyone is welcome.
What can the Network offer?
Events and activities for families and friends to come together, share ideas, information and experiences and to have a great time. Plans for the future include conferences, holidays abroad and Family Fun Weekends.
Contact with other parents, carers and families, with Sense Branches and with other voluntary organisations.
A Newsletter and regular information update for families.
Membership. Over 240 families, friends and others have joined the Network so far.
What do families think of the Network?
After the first Network Family Weekend one family said:-
“We really enjoyed the weekend at Shorefields. To have Saturday to ourselves, to do our own thing was really a treat. Everyone worked really hard to make sure all the children had a great weekend.”
“Family Networks are magic, they are places to be honest, to be helped when you are down, and to help others when you are up. They are a wonderful medium for partnership between families, service providers and other professionals.”
How can I get involved?
To find out more about the Network and its latest plans, please contact Joff McGill at:
Sense
101 Pentonville Road
London N1 9LG
telephone: 0845 127 0060
fax: 0845 127 0061
textphone: 0845 127 0062
If you require information in alternative formats including braille, large print, audio or disk then please contact the Communications department:
tel: 0845 127 0060
fax: 0845 127 0061
textphone: 0845 127 0062
This factsheet was produced by:
Sense
101 Pentonville Road
London N1 9LG
Copyright Sense November 2003
