“..a safe, community space to learn and share experiences”

– A Peer Support webinar series, for Parents & Guardians of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing

  • Session 1 – 26th May 7pm – ‘Mentors’
  • Session 2 – 28th Sept 7pm – ‘Family Support Journey’
  • Session 3 – 19th Oct 7pm – Topic: to be announced
  • Session 4 – 23rd Nov 7pm – Topic: to be announced

Parent Connect Poster 2026

We are delighted  to announce the launch of a new, free online peer support programme for parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children.  Parent Connect is a series of four sessions; each beginning with a talk from a professional on a relevant topic and concluding with a parent peer discussion related to the topic.
For many parents of Deaf children, their own child is the first Deaf person they meet.  The process of diagnosis and accessing supports and services can be overwhelming and it can lead to many fears and anxieties. It can be hugely beneficial for parents to connect with others in the same situation but it is difficult for parents to find the time and opportunities to do so.
Parent Connect was designed to provide that all important, easy to access support in a way that can fit around busy family lives, often already full of appointments.  The programme was made possible through funding from the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under the Parent Peer Support Fund.
Cork Deaf Association Social Worker, Terence Rea, welcomes this funding. “It can be so difficult for parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children to know where to turn or what choices to make when there are so many factors to consider.  Parent Connect will give parents a safe, community space to learn and share experiences.”
Advocacy Officer, Susan O’ Callaghan will lead the first session, which focuses on the theme of Role Models. Ms. O’ Callaghan has worked with the Association for 25 years.  Over the years, she has been a role model and mentor for countless Deaf and Hard of Hearing children in Cork.
Speaking ahead of the first session, Ms. Callaghan says “I am proud to share my lived experience as a Deaf professional.  Role models were so important to me growing up and they gave me a sense of belonging.  I have seen how important it is for children and parents to have role models in their own lives.”
Parents of Deaf and Hard of Hearing children of all ages are warmly encouraged to attend and take part in what promises to be a very special and very supportive programme.

Registration & Tickets

Tickets are free and available from Eventbrite ahead of each session – they will be advertised on the CDA Facebook & Instagram, or email mail@corkdeaf.ie for the mailing list.

Poster – Parents Connect 2026 series

Funded by: Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth under the Parent Peer Support Fund