The leading UK charity that helped deaf children across the nation has collapsed with hundreds of thousands of pounds of debt as it can no longer operate sustainably05:51, 22 May 2026A leading UK charity has plunged into liquidation with £430,000 of debt as a spokesperson revealed it can no longer “operate sustainably”.‌Auditory Verbal collapsed on Friday, May 8.‌The charity was founded in 2003 and were the “leading provider of Auditory Verbal therapy in the UK”, ensuring deaf children have access to the same opportunities as their hearing peers.‌It was based on Kirtlington Road, Chesterton, Bicester and offered therapy, training for professionals through an internationally accredited programme, conducted research and increased awareness.Announcing its closure, the charity said in a statement: “Like many charities, AVUK has been operating in an increasingly challenging and turbulent environment for some time.‌"Over recent months, despite strong progress pursing our strategy and continued delivery of high quality, life changing support, the financial pressures facing the charity have intensified to a point where it is no longer possible for us to operate sustainably."We understand that the speed of this closure may come as a shock.“This has been an incredibly difficult decision, taken with the greatest care for the families, professionals and supporters who have placed their trust in AVUK over the years.”‌The charity noted creditors falling within a year worth £433,557.Recent company accounts show the business to have 30 employees, all of whom will lose their jobs.The charity gained widespread traction, with BBC radio presenter Sara Cox heading an appeal for them and Banbury MP Victoria Prentis visiting.‌The charity added they are ensuring alternative support is provided to those they help.The spokesperson added: “This work has been made possible by the extraordinary generosity of individuals, families, trusts, foundations and partners who believe deeply in our mission, and we are hugely grateful.”Despite campaigning for sustained government support for deaf children, the charity said their demands had “not been met”.‌“Access via public services remains very limited,” they said.They added: “Although AVUK is being wound-up, we are hugely proud to have been part of the collective determination to see a world where all deaf children have the same opportunities in life as their hearing peers“We are proud to have helped challenge outdated perceptions and raise expectations of what deaf children can do and achieve.Article continues below“We hope the progress made will continue to shape a future where all deaf children have access to the early, effective support needed to thrive at school and beyond.”Professional advisors from S&W Partners have been appointed as liquidators and are currently working with AVUK on the winding down process.