Expert intervention

Benjamin* is deafblind because of Charge syndrome.
He is 12 years old and lives at home with his parents. His
frustration at not being understood leads him to scratch and hit
himself and those around him. He must be watched all the time.

When he had an intervenor to support him for three years he began
to make good progress. But this support was withdrawn some years
ago and since then his progress has been minimal.

The council has no one with the expertise to carry out a suitable
assessment. As a consequence, adequate support is not provided.

The lack of support puts pressure on the family. Recently Benjamin
went on a holiday organised by Sense and his parents were able to
enjoy an evening out together for the first time in 10 years. The
local authority has contracted an agency to provide a specialist
assessment. His progress is expected to improve if services follow
the assessment.

* Not his real name