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The Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities (GCPD) recently issued a report on the need for Support Service Providers/Co-Navigators (SSP/CNs) for DeafBlind Texans. Defined as a combination of sight and hearing loss, DeafBlindness impacts a person's ability to communicate and access information. There are an estimated 2,486 DeafBlind Texans over the age of 18. People who are DeafBlind may require significant adaptive strategies in order to maintain independence; the use of an SSP/CN is a critical support DeafBlind Texans currently cannot access. Formalizing an SSP/CN program would be a significant step in empowering DeafBlind Texans to lead more independent, self-determined lives.
Support Service Providers/Co-Navigators are individuals trained to act as a link between persons who are DeafBlind and their environment. They will typically work with a single individual and serve as a guide and communication facilitator. SSP/CNs communicate via American Sign Language (ASL) and are a critical component in enabling people who are DeafBlind to make informed decisions. SSP/CNs commonly help with:
- attending medical appointments;
- participating in a public meeting;
- shopping at the grocery store;
- and reading mail.
Texas does not currently have a formalized SSP/CN program, meaning those who serve in the role in this state are typically unpaid volunteers. People who are DeafBlind are valued members of society, ready to contribute to and participate in their communities. However, they face many barriers in day-to-day routines that make full participation extremely difficult. GCPD's 2020 Report on Support Service Providers/Co-Navigators illustrates how establishing a state SSP/CN program would go a long way towards meeting the critical needs of DeafBlind Texans and empowering them to live independent, self-determined lives.
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