Deafblind consultant

What does a deafblindness consultant do? – Tasks and work environment

A deafblindness consultant works to support individuals with combined vision and hearing impairments, often called deafblindness. Tasks include assessing individual needs, planning and coordinating interventions, and advising clients and relatives. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with habilitation services, municipal agencies, and other care and welfare providers. Deafblindness consultants work both in offices and in the field, with home visits and meetings with clients being common. The work environment is characterized by high personal engagement and demanding communication skills and flexibility.

Salary development over time

The profession of deafblindness consultant has experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,200 SEK per month, rising to 44 700 SEK in 2023, and further to 46 500 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to an increase of approximately 7.6% over three years, which is slightly higher than the average salary growth for similar professions. The increase is partly driven by rising demand for specialized skills and a growing need for individualized support for people with deafblindness. The market's demand for higher education and experience has also contributed to upward pressure on salaries, while competition within the profession remains relatively balanced.

Deafblindness consultant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 46 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, low education)
• Highest salary: 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 280 SEK/hour (average for hourly workers)
• Gender differences: Men earn 48 800 SEK, women 45 300 SEK – women earn 93% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Varies depending on sector and region, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as a deafblindness consultant, a relevant university degree in social work, special education, or similar fields is required. Many employers also value experience working with people with disabilities, especially in vision and hearing. Specialized courses and further training in deafblindness, as well as good knowledge of alternative communication methods, are often advantageous. Internships and supervision in the field are highly valuable for developing the skills required for the profession.

• Relevant university degree: Social worker, special educator, or equivalent (3–4 years)
• Specialized courses: In deafblindness, communication, and disability
• Internship: Experience working with individuals with vision and hearing impairments
• Certifications: Meritorious but not mandatory
• Prerequisites: High school diploma and work experience in care, welfare, or education

Common benefits and compensations

Deafblindness consultants are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, wellness contributions, and generous vacation policies. Other common benefits include professional development, flexible working hours, remote work options, and travel allowances. In some cases, support and supervision from the employer are offered to strengthen the psychosocial work environment.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a deafblindness consultant is assessed as moderate, with a balanced recruitment situation according to the Employment Service's forecast. Challenges in the profession mainly involve staying updated on new communication methods and support techniques, as well as meeting the growing demand for individualized interventions. Working with a small target group requires high specialist competence and continuous professional development. Emotional strain may occur when working with clients with complex needs, which demands patience and empathy.

Tips for those who want to become a deafblindness consultant

To succeed as a deafblindness consultant, strong communication skills and a genuine desire to make a difference are important. Being attentive and flexible makes it easier to adapt to different clients' needs and situations, while accuracy is crucial in documentation and planning interventions. Engagement and patience help handle challenging situations and build trust with clients and relatives. It is also wise to seek internships or part-time jobs in the disability field to gain practical experience. Completing specialized training in communication and deafblindness increases employment chances, and an open mind to new methods and ongoing professional development provides a solid foundation for long-term success in the profession.

Key facts about deafblindness consultants

• Education level: Usually requires a university degree (3–4 years)
• Work environment: Fieldwork combined with office work
• Typical employment: Municipal or regional employment
• Demand: Moderate, balanced job market
• Special skills: Communication with individuals with vision and hearing impairments

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a deafblindness consultant can develop into roles such as coordinator, unit manager, or specialist in vision and hearing. Continued professional development in communication, leadership, and project management opens opportunities for work in education, method development, or as an expert at regional or national levels. According to the Employment Service's forecast for planners and investigators, future prospects are stable, with moderate job opportunities and an unchanged demand over five years. The balanced recruitment situation suggests that competition is not overly fierce, but specialist competence and further training can provide advantages in the job market. Currently, there are 758 available positions in the profession, indicating good opportunities for qualified applicants.

Frequently asked questions about deafblindness consultants

• What does a deafblindness consultant earn?
  - The average salary is 46 500 SEK/month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a deafblindness consultant?
  - A university degree in social work, pedagogy, or similar is recommended, along with specialization in deafblindness.
• What is the job market like for deafblindness consultants?
  - The job market is balanced with moderate opportunities and stable demand according to the Employment Service.
• Are there gender differences in salary within the profession?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 48 800 SEK, women 45 300 SEK – women earn 93% of men's salaries.
• What personal qualities are important for a deafblindness consultant?
  - Good communication skills, empathy, flexibility, and patience are essential qualities for the profession.
• How can you increase your chances of getting a job as a deafblindness consultant?
  - Practical experience, specialized courses, and engagement in the field increase employment opportunities.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a deafblindness consultant?
  - The highest salary is 60,200 SEK/month (male, municipal sector, research degree) and the lowest is 30,200 SEK/month (female, government sector, low education).