A GROUNDBREAKING new service is being launched in Clacton to help cope with the rising number of deaf and blind people.

The number of sensoryimpaired people in Essex is expected to rise from 180,000 to 210,000 over the next five years – the highest in the country.

Many live in the Tendring district, which has an elderly population.

Nowanew service is being launched to tackle the loneliness and isolation often experienced by people who are deaf, blind or both.

Experts provide sensory awareness training to businesses and organisations to help staff communicate with blind and deaf people, and understand the conditions.

The courses, run by Essex Cares, are unique because they use blind and deaf trainers.

Manager Faye Gatenby said: “The fact the training is delivered by people who live with these impairments on a daily basis is our unique selling point, because you can experience it first-hand and practice the communication skills we’re teaching.”

“We’re very excited to be launching this innovative new service in Essex.”

The team said the training was suitable for healthcare workers, but also supermarket, bank and retail staff. It has already been used by an NHS falls prevention team.

Leader Anna Troughton said: “The feedback fromour staff has been hugely positive.

The fact it’s delivered by people who themselves are deaf, blind and deaf-blind makes it very real. You can grasp the concept of what you’re learning.”

Essex Cares also runs the Millicents Wellbeing and Activity Centre, in Ramsden Close, and the Book Rest Café at Clacton Library For more details, call 01245 256380.