The National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) is celebrating today after the NHS Newborn Hearing Screening Programme was put in place last week across England.

Around three babies are born deaf every day in England, but the NHS Screening Programme can reduce the average age deafness is diagnosed from three years old to three months, the charity claimed.

NDCS chief executive, Susan Daniels OBE, said: "NDCS has campaigned for many years for the introduction of newborn hearing screening and we are thrilled that it is available for all.

"Now we want to raise awareness of the screening, making sure parents understand what it is, and reassuring them that if their child has any hearing problems, the NDCS can provide friendly advice and support."

For more information contact the NDCS helpline on 0808 800 8880 (voice and text) or email helpline@ndcs.org.uk.