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Dickson House is a warm, family-style home for Deaf children and young people. Opened in 2002, it was created in response to a real need – a safe, specialist place where deaf children could live, learn and grow with the support of staff who truly understand them.
Today, it remains one of only two registered homes for Deaf children in the UK. Run by The Carr Fenton Foundation, it sits within the same campus as Doncaster School for the Deaf, ensuring education, communication and care all work hand in hand.
Every child here is supported to thrive – emotionally, socially and educationally. We focus on stability, belonging and independence, helping young people build the skills and confidence they need for the next stage of their lives.
Dickson House
A six-bedroom home set within the Foundation grounds, Dickson House has bright, welcoming communal spaces, including a kitchen where children cook together, a lounge for games and movies, and a garden for football, barbecues and play.
The North Flat
Located above the school, the North Flat provides supported independence for up to three older residents. It’s a stepping stone towards adult life, where young people learn to budget, cook, travel independently and manage their own routines – with staff guidance whenever they need it.
Together, Dickson House and the North Flat are registered to support up to nine children and young people at any one time.
Our approach is simple – we care deeply, communicate clearly and help every child reach their potential. We focus on:
- High-quality care and communication Every member of staff uses BSL to communicate and is trained in Deaf awareness.
- Emotional and physical wellbeingWe create a calm, structured, safe environment where children feel secure and supported.
- Education and opportunityOur strong links with Doncaster School for the Deaf provide continuity, encouragement and celebration of every achievement.
- Skills for lifeFrom cooking and budgeting to friendship and teamwork, we understand that children learn by doing.
- Belonging and joyShared meals, laughter and play are central to daily life at Dickson house.
The Foundation’s values are at the heart of everything we do. We always:
- Treat every child with dignity and understanding.
- Build trusted, family-like relationships.
- Celebrate difference and individuality.
- Work closely with families, social workers and teachers to give each child the best possible start.
Since opening in 2002, Dickson House has supported Deaf children and young people to feel safe, understood and able to flourish. We care for up to nine residents across two homes – Dickson House and North Flat – offering both term-time and 52-week placements.
Our Ofsted rating is Outstanding, and our team of signing, specialist staff create an environment where children can grow in confidence and independence. All of this takes place within the Carr Fenton Foundation campus in Doncaster – a community built on understanding, communication and belonging.
Dickson House is part of a wider journey of education and care provided by The Carr Fenton Foundation, supporting individuals from early years through to adulthood. Many residents attend Doncaster School for the Deaf, and later move on to Yorkshire Rose College or live independently with the confidence and life skills they’ve gained here.
