The CICS Group was set up to help families whose children are so deaf that they do not derive sufficient benefit from conventional hearing aids.
The vast majority of these children will be suitable for a cochlear implant, a surgically implanted device that, with the right support, and assuming they have no other significant disabilities, will enable them to learn to listen and to develop intelligible speech.
Established in 1993 and registered as a charity in May 2003, CICS is an entirely voluntary group run by parents who recognise that there is no one approach that will suit all children. It's work includes:
- Providing information and support based on first-hand experience
- Putting families in touch with others who have relevant experiences to share, eg cause of deafness, additional needs, method of communication, educational provision
- Providing a quarterly newsletter
- Organising a regular information day
- Arranging social events for the whole family
- Organising activity weekends
- Hosting a members’ Facebook page
- Liaising with other organisations helping deaf children
- Providing links with other groups as well as adult CI users and some overseas families
- Raising awareness of cochlear implants
- Taking part in campaigns and research
The group is independent and relies entirely on donations, grants, and fundraising efforts to cover expenses. Membership is free for members who must either have a child who uses a cochlear implant or be undergoing assessment for a cochlear implant. Events are advertised to members and take place in various locations.