Communicator Guides and their role
Some people need extra support to communicate and access information. Communicator guides provide this specialist help for people with sensory needs, including those with dual sensory loss and complex needs. Their role is to promote independence, wellbeing and informed decision-making.
Who they support
Communicator guides work with citizens in Staffordshire who:
- Have Care Act eligible care and support needs
- Have a single sensory disability with other complex needs, or have dual sensory loss (either from birth or acquired later in life)
- Experience a significant functional impact in any of these areas:
- Communication and language
- Access to information
- Mobility and community access
- Cannot meet these needs through assistive technology alone
If you think you might need this support, contact Staffordshire Cares on 0300 111 8010 to request a sensory assessment and find out if you’re eligible for a communicator guide.
What do they do
Communicator guides are skilled professionals who:
- Relay information and facilitate communication using preferred methods such as British Sign Language (BSL) or hands-on signing
- Support safe navigation in the home and community
- Help individuals make informed choices and encourage independence
- Introduce and teach new communication techniques if needed
Why it matters
The aim is to:
- Empower citizens to achieve life goals
- Promote wellbeing and independence
- Prevent carer breakdown and reduce over-reliance on others
- Ensure decisions are made by the individual, not for them
Examples of support
Communicator guides can help with:
- Making use of the home safely
- Maintaining a habitable home environment
- Developing and maintaining relationships
- Accessing work, training, education or volunteering
- Using community facilities and services, including public transport and leisure activities
