A ROMSEY care home has formed a new partnership with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People.

Abbotswood Court care home has introduced charity representatives and a young cockapoo puppy in training for residents and their carers.

This new partnership aims to raise awareness for the charity in the community, and alerting deaf people to sounds they would otherwise miss, such as doorbells, alarm clocks and even fire alarms.

Malcolm Board introduced Abbotswood staff and residents to Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, and the 19-month-old puppy Britney to give the special information.

Nicholas Orpin, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People community regional fundraiser said: “We are delighted to have formed a new partnership with Abbotswood Court. They will be helping us to increase awareness for our charity and the importance of our work.

“The cost to train and support each hearing dog throughout their lifetime is £40,000 – so we rely heavily on our amazing supporters such us Abbotswood to help us change lives.’’

Gemma Ridout Bowden, general manager of Abbotswood Court, said: “We were pleased to support the charity and welcome Hearing Dogs for Deaf People into our care home. We know that hearing dogs can help deaf people and especially the elderly to reconnect with life. This is one of the main reasons why we decided to engage with the charity as for those experiencing deafness and living alone, a hearing dog can provide a newfound sense of independence and confidence.’’

As well as their work with Hearing Dogs for Death People, several staff members at Abbotswood Court are currently undertaking Makaton training.

This is a language programme which uses signs and symbols to help people to communicate.