Sensory Impairment Rehabilitation Service

Monmouthshire County Council intends to commission a specialist service to support residents with sight, hearing, dual sensory, or deafblind impairments, in line with the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014.

The service will need to provide person-centred rehabilitation, early intervention, and strategies to maintain independence. Delivery will likely include approximately 1.5 FTE qualified sensory impairment specialists (including ROVIs or RVS) operating within integrated health and social care teams, undertaking home visits, assessments, and training, while issuing aids and equipment to promote independence.

Key service delivery operations include:

• Managing referrals from professionals, individuals, and families.

• Prioritising waiting lists and maintaining clear communication.

• Developing tailored rehabilitation programmes based on “What Matters” principles.

• Supporting home adaptations and liaising with third-sector organisations and health services.

The service should also provide training for professionals and carers, implement preventative strategies to reduce the impact of sensory loss, and maintain strong links with local ophthalmology and audiology pathways.

The aim is to enable individuals to live independently and improve well-being through timely, practical support and skills development.