Important updates to Deaf Action’s social work services: this service will now by provided directly by Edinburgh Council, East Lothian Council and Midlothian Council.
The three councils that have been funding Deaf Action’s social work service – Edinburgh, East Lothian and Mid Lothian – have been under pressure to cut their spending. Over the last five months Deaf Action staff have been in many meetings with all three Councils, including client Consultation events and Impact assessment meetings to look at the services that the Councils fund and where cuts could be made. Edinburgh Council is our biggest funder for the social worker service we provide on their behalf and it has always been understood that the smaller funders (Midlothian and East Lothian Councils) would follow Edinburgh’s lead.
Edinburgh Council and East Lothian Council have made the difficult decision to cut the funding for the Social Work post that is provided by Deaf Action, instead they will deliver a social work for BSL users via Social Workers in their locality teams who will engage BSL/English interpreters.
Louise Disharoon, our Senior Social Worker, will be leaving us at the end of September. Our BSL Interpreter duty service on Thursdays will also cease on 30 September 2024. Our Community Care service and duty will continue.
How can I see a social worker?
To see a social worker, please contact your local authority directly. If you need help, please contact us at socialcare@deafaction.org
What can Deaf Action help with?
Our Community Care Assistants provide services to deaf BSL users in Edinburgh and the Lothians. The CCA team can help you get your needs assessed to see if you require formal support, as well as giving you advice and guidance in other areas. Find out more information about our social care services here.
If you have any questions, please contact us at socialcare@deafaction.org