This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Extra £150,000 for training Social Work staff dealing with Deaf and Blind
18/09/1998
Scottish Social Work Minister Sam Galbraith today announced an extra £150,000 to improve the training of social work staff who work with people with a sensory impairment.
Responding to the report Sensing Progress published today Mr Galbraith said:
"I welcome the publication of this report into services for people with a sensory impairment. People who deal every day with the challenges of being deaf, blind or both need all our support.
"Communication is their greatest challenge. I am determined that their helpers do not inadvertently add to that challenge. I want this problem tackled quickly and have today allocated an extra £150,000 to provide better sensory impairment training to staff.
"I can confirm that a Consultation Paper on training needs will be issued in the autumn.
"I have also asked that a working group to review the certification and registration of people with a visual impairment begin their task as soon as possible.
"I must emphasise the importance of joint working in improving services. We must break down any remaining barriers for these vulnerable citizens and work together in developing a better service for people who have a sensory impairment".
News Release: 1883/98
18 September 1998