The children have to learn how to hear and speak, making the operation very much more effective

Sue Archbold, ear specialist

Until now there has been nowhere for children and their families to undergo training to fully use the implant.

The Ear Foundation, the charity which brought ear implantations to UK, has raised nearly �1m to fund the centre which opened on Thursday.

Sue Archbold, who co-ordinates the paediatric cochlear implantation programme, said: "It is exciting because the future of the children is now secure.

"The operation is the beginning. The children have to learn how to hear and speak, making the operation very much more effective."

Up to 12 children will be treated at the centre at any one time.

Parental training

Since 1989, 350 children from around the country have had cochlear implants at QMC and the list is growing.

"The children need somewhere to come to learn how to manage the device.

"The Ear Foundation provides residential accommodation, a rehabilitation centre and training courses for parents and teachers."

Princess Alexandra opened the centre on Thursday afternoon.

There is currently a year-long waiting list for the operation at QMC.