A HEARING and vision charity says it is with a “heavy heart” it has had to make the decision to cease its contract with the Bath & North East Somerset Sensory Loss Service.

As a result the deafPLUS/visionPLUS office at 2 Queens Parade, Bath, will close.

A spokesperson said: “It’s with a heavy heart that we at deafPLUS/visionPLUS announce that as from January 1, 2026 we will no longer operate the Bath & North East Somerset Sensory Loss Service contract.

“It has been an incredible journey with nearly 50 years of service to the people of BANES and beyond.”

The team at deafPLUS/visionPLUS have always strived to provide an inclusive service to deaf, hard of hearing and visually impaired people in a ‘client centred, co-productive and community led way’.

They delivered services with people in mind, ensuring all had access to mainstream services, visiting many at home, at the Bath office and local hubs throughout BANES, helping support people to lead independent lives.

A spokesperson continued: “Over the last three years alone we have seen over 1,500 people in their homes and at our various hubs, supplying information, advice and support.

“Enjoying comradeship and fun with our social groups, at many memorable outings such as cycling, craft at the Holburne, Beckford, bowling, boat trips — too many to mention. So, thank you to all who helped bring joy!

“Karen, Lucy and Dan have delivered the service and obtained high levels of satisfactions from your feedback. We wish them all be best for the future.”

The deafPLUS national services will still be available.

There are still a number of events being held before the January closure, with the next ‘Deaf Gathering’ on December 20, at CLUB 22, 22 High Street, Keynsham, BS31 1DQ. Lucy Barron will be hosting from noon onwards.