Hearing loss affects 1 in 5 of us

Difficulties with hearing are more common than many people realise and can affect people at any stage of life. Changes often happen gradually, so it’s easy to adapt without noticing the early signs.

Learning more about your hearing through a free test can be the first step towards hearing life in full clarity.

Are you experiencing gradual hearing loss?

Hearing loss often develops slowly, and symptoms can be easy to miss.

You may notice:

  • People sounding like they mumble
  • Difficulty hearing speech clearly
  • Struggling to follow conversations in noisy places
  • Turning the TV volume up higher than before
  • Missing the doorbell
  • Not hearing approaching cars when walking
  • Difficulty keeping up in groups
  • Struggling to hear clearly on the phone

If these sound familiar, booking a hearing assessment could help you hear better and enjoy a more fulfilling life.

What are the causes of hearing loss?

Age-related
As we age, the delicate structures within the inner ear gradually change – this type of hearing loss usually happens slowly, affecting both ears.
Noise exposure
Long-term exposure to loud noise from music to machinery, can damage the tiny hair cells inside the inner ear. Once damaged, these cells don’t regenerate, which can lead to permanent hearing changes.
Ear wax build-up
Excess ear wax can block the ear canal and cause temporary hearing difficulties. At the Hearing People we can easily remove it using fast, effective microsuction.
Medical reasons
Ear infections, fluid build-up, medications and underlying health conditions can affect hearing. In lots of cases, treating the underlying issue can improve hearing.
Sudden loss
This is less common but needs urgent medical attention. If you experience a rapid change in hearing in one or both ears, you should seek advice as soon as possible.

Why book a hearing test?

Untreated hearing loss can lead to:

  • Isolation and loneliness
  • Reduced mental sharpness
  • Balance problems and falls

Using hearing solutions early can support your cognitive health, make communication easier, and help you stay connected.

Frequently asked questions

We typically have appointments available without delay. Please check availability in your local clinic when you book.

Once we assess your hearing, in the majority of cases, if hearing aids are needed, we can fit them the same day. There are some cases where this might not happen, for example if you need earmoulds made.

Our services are entirely funded by the NHS, so you don’t have to pay anything for your hearing aids, batteries or follow-up services.

Yes, our NHS hearing aids are Bluetooth* enabled. Enjoy seamless integration with digital devices for an enhanced hearing experience. You can even use an app on your phone to control your hearing aid settings like the volume and background noise reduction features.

*Connects to the latest iOS and certain android devices only. If you are unsure, please ask your audiologist to check for compatibility. You may need additional accessories for non-compatible devices.

Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring a family member or friend along to your appointment. Having a familiar voice present can be very helpful when checking your hearing.

If you need to get in touch to change your appointment date or time, please give us a call on 0800 023 8000
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