Update on the Deafconnect closure
Support offer16 March 2026
Deafconnect has announced that it will cease its client-based deaf and hard of hearing services from the end of March.
The charity says its financial position is more challenging than previously understood and that it is unable to continue delivering the service beyond 31 March. Until that date, Deafconnect will still offer services by appointment only.
Deafconnect supports Deaf, deafened, hard of hearing, and deafblind people in Northamptonshire.
New service planned
North Northamptonshire Council is working to make sure a new information and advice service for Deaf people is available from April 2026. This is to make sure the Deaf community can continue receiving support.
The council has proactively engaged with a range of organisations regarding a replacement service and have received three expressions of interest.
Engagement has also taken place with members of the Deaf Community. They have shown a strong willingness to collaborate with the council as Experts by Experience. Their involvement will support a fuller understanding of community needs. This will inform the redesign of a future service.
We recognise that this has been an unsettling and uncertain time for the Deaf community. Our aim is to establish a service model that more effectively reflects the needs of the community while reducing reliance on more formal care and support services. Given the level of interest from appropriate and capable organisations, and subject to following a robust governance and grants process, a new replacement service could realistically be mobilised by mid to late April 2026.Cllr Eddie McDonald, North Northamptonshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive member for adult services
There may be a three-to-four week gap in service provision while a replacement service is established. During this period, the council will provide information and advice through its web pages. This will include signposting to relevant regional and national services. It may also be possible for the successful provider to deliver a minimal service from 1 April 2026, subject to further discussion and agreement.
Book an appointment
If you need help or want to book an appointment with Deafconnect until 31 March 2026, please contact:
Phone (voice / text relay): 01604 589011
Email: [email protected]
Information and advice will also continue to be available online.
Further information and advice resources:
- North Northamptonshire Support Offer
- RNID – Information and Support
- Royal Association for Deaf People – Deaf Support Services
- British Deaf Association