New Website Helps Deaf And Hearing Impaired NZers

New Website Helps Deaf And Hearing Impaired New Zealanders

Help is now available at the click of a mouse for New Zealanders suffering from or concerned about hearing loss with the launch of the National Foundation for the Deaf’s new website www.nfd.org.nz.

The interactive site provides support, information and advice and has been welcomed by those within the hearing sector as an important resource not just for people concerned about hearing impairment, but also for hearing professionals and those within the education sector.

The website features a comprehensive, customized ‘get support’ search that locates helpful organisations by area. Recent news stories, factual information and the latest research provide up to date information on deafness and hearing impairment. An online hearing test will recommend if people should have their hearing tested further and advises where to go to do this.

Professionals such as John Wood, a psychologist working with the deaf, who has been involved in the education of Deaf or hearing impaired New Zealanders for 23 years, welcomes the launch of the website, a resource he believes is long overdue.

“This is a truly national site that is very easy to navigate,” said Wood. “It is as simple as keying in your location and what you want to know and you will be presented with a list of a variety of relevant support groups in your area.

“It is great to know that there is now one site where people can access comprehensive information and support,” added Wood.

Marianne Schumacher, executive manager of the National Foundation for the Deaf (NFD) says it is fitting that the website re-launch coincides with the Foundation’s 25th anniversary.

“The NFD has worked hard for a quarter of a century to enhance the interests, independence and well-being of Deaf and hearing-impaired New Zealanders as well as raise awareness about hearing loss amongst the wider community,” says Schumacher. “The new website reinforces this commitment by offering these people easier access to help, support and information.”

The NFD provides a number of Scholarships for Deaf or hearing impaired New Zealanders and details of these together with application forms are also available on the site. For information and stories from across the sector users can download the NFD’s colourful newsletter or join the mailing list.

The National Foundation for the Deaf represents the largest disability group in the country – approximately 450,000 Deaf and hearing impaired people and relies on the generosity of the public and the host of volunteers across New Zealand to achieve its goals. Donations to the NFD can be made online.

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