Ear Checks Programme wins National Association of Special Needs Award

We are really excited to announce that the Ear Checks programme we have been working on since 2021 with NHS England has won two awards at the National Association for Special Educational Needs Awards (known as nasen awards).

The rewards recognise ‘individuals and organisations for their outstanding work to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) and learning differences reach their full potential.’

Co-Production Collective at UCL won Co-Production Initiative of the Year sponsored by Seashell Trust and in recognition of our support of the co-production work that has gone into shaping ear checks that enable autistic young people, young people with a learning disability or both to have ear checks in an environment that is familiar with staff that know them and their needs well.

Ruth Thomsen of NHS England won Leader of the Year sponsored by TG Escapes for her tireless work on the programme.

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Throughout the programme we have worked with a broad range of people from across the sector including; audiologists; residential special school staff; adults and young people who are autistic and/or have a learning disability; parents and carers; people who work in healthcare and public health roles. From working in partnership with so many involved and affected by this process we have co-created a range of ways to explain the checks to young people as well as carry them out in a way that works both for the young people themselves as well as those conducting the tests.  

“Working on the programme for the last few years has been a privilege. It genuinely centres the needs & experiences of children & young people who are autistic &/or have a learning disability, supporting them to have ear checks (facilitated by innovative technology) with familiar people in familiar environments. As an autistic person, I know what is at stake.” Chloe, co-producer as part of the programme team

“It's been tough at times but always a learning curve and always a team full of support and passion to push for better, strive for co-production and to make sure children and young people are a central part of developing ear checks that work for them. We have worked with a wide range of people and organisations and continue to do so. Lots more still to do!!” Niccola, Co-Production Collective staff team

The award ceremony took place just one day before NHS England announced its plans to roll out free eyesight, hearing and dental checks for children at residential special schools from next year. This announcement led to the programme receiving lots of coverage in the national media including the BBC, ITV, The Guardian, The Independent and in other news outlets.

Cover Image Credit: Canva