A PRACTICAL GUIDE FOR CI ADVOCACY & TRAINING VIDEOS
“Tailored communication and advocacy can be effective drivers for policy formulation. Such advocacy has to be undertaken at global, regional and national levels and be based on facts and figures supported by evidence.” (World Report on Hearing, page 186)
DOWNLOAD THE PRACTICAL GUIDE TO CI ADVOCACY HERE: CIICA ADVOCACY GUIDE 2
WATCH THE LATEST ADVOCACY TRAINING VIDEO HERE.
Cochlear implantation (CI) is recognized as a life-changing and cost-effective intervention for deaf individuals which benefits society by improving communication and well-being.
However, access to CI and ongoing support is limited in many countries globally, with only 1 in 20 of those who could benefit can access CI.
Current advances in access to CI and support services have only happened because of the energetic and persistent advocacy and campaigning of user groups and individuals locally, supported by committed professionals and industry. However, access to CI and services remains low: continued effort in individual regions and countries as well as globally is needed to ensure the promise of better communication through hearing well can be achieved.
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO ADVOCACY
This guide aims to support user advocates, professionals and all those campaigning to improve aspects of CI access and provision of services. It is based on a series of case studies of successful campaigns, many undertaken by CIICA members, to help advocates think about what would be relevant to their campaigns. It also outlines an overall plan for improving CI provision and links to other examples, resources and advice for advocates. With this guide, we want to encourage unified voices and action to increase access to CI and lifelong services.
If you want inspiration, advice and knowledge for planning your future campaigning the guide provides evidence and resources specific to campaigning on CI provision. CIICA ADVOCACY GUIDE
ADVOCACY TRAINING VIDEOS
As part of our mission to support our members, we have produced short videos addressing specific aspects of the campaign and advocacy, featuring contributions from leading academic experts and experienced advocates. The videos cover introductions to a topic, or practical case studies of successful advocacy in a particular country or context. We will be uploading the videos over the next six months.
CI Statistics clarify the need for CI and the changes required.
Separating the facts from the myths is crucial in advocating for access and services. Ann-Charlotte Gyllenram shows, through a case study of the work of Barnplantorna in Sweden, how to unpick the figures and the difference analysing the statistics can make to your arguments.
How to influence Governments is crucial in advocacy campaigns for Cochlear Implants. This presentation from Anita Grover, Chief Executive of Auditory Verbal UK and previously a Civil Servant with the UK Government, outlines the key principles you need to be aware of to influence Government in your Advocacy work. She brings her key insights from having both been in Government and now working to influence it in the UK.
Making sure that Cochlear Implants are affordable and accessible is crucial to ensuring wider access for all who need them. In this video, Carolina Der from the World Health Organisation explores these themes and what advocates can do to ensue wider access.
In this first video, Professor Sarah Rubinelli from the University of Lucerne, takes us through some of the core principles which we should consider when putting together an advocacy campaign. As she says advocacy is a marathon not a sprint!
If you are a member of our CIICA community, you will receive a notification of our latest video in our newsletter. If you are not already a CIICA member, click here to sign up and start receiving our updates!
“You already have the most important and valuable tool you need: your story…..By translating those experiences to policymakers, you can play a critical role in shaping legislation and policy for families, consumers, and the medical community.” (American CI Alliance, Advocacy Guide)