Multi-Sensory Impairment (MSI)
- MSI is one of the rarest SEN categories but needs the most specialist support
- Every child with MSI is unique — there is no one-size-fits-all approach
- Intervenors (specialist 1:1 support workers) are key to quality of life for people with MSI
- Communication development is possible at any stage — it's never too late
What is Multi-Sensory Impairment?
Multi-sensory impairment means a child has difficulties with both hearing and vision. This combination creates unique challenges because the child can't easily use one sense to compensate for the other.
The extent of the impairment varies widely. Some children have partial hearing and partial sight; others are profoundly deaf and blind. Each child's combination of needs is unique.
Children with MSI need highly specialist support from professionals trained specifically in this area. Communication is often through touch-based methods, and building trust and relationships is foundational to all learning.
👀 What you might notice
- Difficulty hearing AND seeing, even with aids
- May need to use touch as a primary way of exploring and understanding
- Finding communication particularly challenging
- Needing very close, one-to-one support to access activities
How schools can help
A specially trained person who works 1:1 to facilitate communication and access
Hand-under-hand signs, objects of reference, tactile symbols, or deafblind manual
A predictable, well-organised space where your child can feel safe
Carefully planned experiences using residual senses — vibration, texture, temperature, smell
Regular functional assessments of both hearing and vision to adapt support
🏠 What you can do at home
- Create a predictable home environment with consistent routines
- Use touch and close physical contact to communicate warmth and safety
- Work closely with specialists to learn the communication methods that work for your child
- Connect with other families — Sense runs family weekends and events
- Advocate for the specialist support your child needs — MSI expertise is rare and vital
🤝 Organisations that can help
🔗 Related conditions
SEN types often overlap. Your child may have more than one area of need. Here are conditions commonly linked to Multi-Sensory Impairment:
Note: This guide is for general information only. Every child is unique, and SEN types often overlap. If you have concerns about your child, speak to your child's school SENCO and your GP. For legal advice on SEN rights, contactIPSEA (free).