Reading has been a major part of the life of Nansi Selwood – and she is able to continue to do this with the help and support of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
Now registered deaf and blind, the 90-year-old retired schoolteacher continues to live independently in her home thanks to the Council’s dedicated Sensory Services Team and a range of high-tech and innovative gadgets installed in her Aberdare home!
The Sensory Services Team supports hundreds of children, young people and adults across Rhondda Cynon Taf who have hearing impairments, sight loss or both, supporting individuals, their parents and carers.
A well-known local historian and author, Nansi has always been extremely active in the community and has written many books on her locality, including the best-selling book, A History of Hirwaun and Rhigos, she also helped the Council unveil its Blue Plaque at Hirwaun Ironworks.
Mrs Selwood has four children, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Her husband Jack sadly passed away in 1996 and since then she has lived independently, with the support of her family and Rhondda Cynon Taf Council.
“Literature has been my life and when my eyesight started deteriorating in 2000 it was a major blow to me – I still find it frustrating at times,” said Mrs Selwood.
“Not being able to read my own personal mail was devastating, which is why I decided to learn Braille with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Sensory Team. It was hard going at first, but with the Braille tutor Lynda Dixon, I managed to master it and it has allowed me to enjoy my life once again.
“Your sight is something we all take for granted. It is not until it is cruelly taken away from you that you realise how valuable it is.”
Cllr Mike Forey, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Social Care and Well-being, said: “Our Sensory Services Team is made up of first-class specialist workers wo are qualified to deliver a range of innovative support measures to allow our residents to cope with every day living and maintain their independence.
“Many people who suffer a sensory loss lose confidence in their ability to run their home, prepare meals and maintain standards. Our team can help them regain their independence by simply changing the way they do things or by using techniques and equipment.
“By working closely with our many partner agencies, along with other sections of the Council itself, we are able to deliver a comprehensive service through our Sensory Services Strategy to all residents of the County Borough.”
Mrs Selwood is full of praise of Rhondda Cynon Taf Council for helping her to continue to life a full life in the independence of her own home.
She said: “I cannot thank Rhondda Cynon Taf Council enough for all the help and support they provide to me. The Council’s Sensory Team is absolutely fantastic, especially my Braille tutor Lynda Dixon.
“They are the experts in their field and always give me guidance and advice whenever I need it.”
For further details on how you can access this service, contact the Adult Duty Team on 01443 425755 or via email at [email protected]
