WE all go about our busy everyday lives with little thought about our senses and it is these things that we tend to take for granted.

How do you think you would cope if you eyesight and hearing was compromised for the day? How would you cope going about your everyday life? Would you struggle with things you don't normally think about doing?

This week I got a feel for what it would be like to be registered deaf and blind as I spent some time with Wiltshire Council's Hearing and Vision Team as they raised awareness of the condition at County Hall.

I spoke to the team about how deafblind people are helped by a guide to go about everyday tasks.

Dual sensory specialist Nichola Humpage said: "A lot of people really take their vision and hearing for granted and have a misunderstanding about deafblindness.

"In most cases people aren't completely deaf and blind, they can have tunnel or very blurry vision and partial hearing.

"This means they are still able to do everyday things but it may take them a bit longer and they often need help."

I then stepped into the shoes of a deafblind person as I put on goggles which simulated tunnel vision and earmuffs which compromised my hearing.

Nichola then lead me around the atrium of County Hall so I could get a feel for what it would be like to depend on a guide.

I found it very disorientating tiring as it takes a lot of concentration.

We even went outside to go down the steps which I found very difficult. You put an awful lot of trust in the person guiding you.

After walking around for around 10 minutes I was pleased to be back where I started.

Nichola added: "Amy was right to find the walk tiring as it takes deafblind people longer and much more effort to do everyday tasks.

"You must remember that Amy was able to take the goggles and ear muffs off, but this is the reality for many people so it is our job to make life as easy as it can be for them."

Charlie Turrell has severely compromised sight and hearing and communicates through sign language which his guide, Carol Eve translates for him.

He said: "The team here are so helpful and I wouldn't be able to even leave the house without them.That would make me feel very isolated and depressed. I am very thankful for all they do for me as they allow me to live my life to the fullest."

To find out more about the work of Wiltshire Council's hearing and vision team please visit www.yourcareyoursupportwiltshire.org.uk/health-and-social-care/hearing-vision-help