Charity profile

The National Institute for the Deaf (NID) is situated in the heart of the Breede River Valley, in the rapidly expanding town Worcester. Nestled within a picturesque scene of lush vineyards and olive groves, the town is fondly referred to as the Care Capital of South Africa because of its unique collection of organisations caring for the needs of persons with disabilities.

One such organisation is NID. Founded in 1881, NID is the only facility in South Africa (to date) offering a full continuum of services for deaf persons from infancy to old age. It is a private dynamic, non-profit company and is one of the oldest and largest constituency organisations and resource centres safeguarding and promoting the interests, human rights and well-being of deaf persons in South Africa.

The Institute has become world renowned for programmes that empower deaf persons to become self-supporting citizens. These services include early identification, assessment, provision of hearing aids and assistive devices, education and training, care programmes, development and mental health services as well as support services to the broader deaf community.