New services to benefit families with deaf children

From: ABC Regional Online, Australia - Jun 2, 2005

Families with deaf children on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula now have access to free services that were previously available only in the city.

The Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children has received funding from the Federal Government to extend services to rural and remote areas.

It says new technology like video conferencing means families can get advice from the institute's specialists away from its base in Sydney.

The institute's Jan North says there has been interest already from Port Lincoln, and it is looking for more participants.

"Families who can't get access to city programs who are in rural or regional areas of Australia can access the expertise of our specialist staff," she said.

"Not only is it free, but we will support families to visit Sydney for a full assessment and planning service, if that's appropriate for them, if that's what they'd like."

© 2005 ABC