Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Go

I'm worried about my hearing

If you are having difficulties with your hearing, you should visit your doctor. They may find it is a minor problem that can be resolved at the surgery. If your doctor thinks the problem is more serious, they will refer you to the Audiology Department at the hospital. You will get a hearing test. If they think it is necessary, they might suggest that you try using one or two hearing aids.

The hearing aids will be made especially for you and will be paid for by the NHS. You might choose to go to a private company and buy hearing aids yourself. If you do this, make sure you choose a company that you trust, and will carry on offering you support after you have bought your hearing aids.

Hearing Impairment

We have a register of people who live in the borough who have a severe sight or hearing loss. When you provide your audiogram we will ask you if you would like to register.

If you are registered as Deaf, you may be able to claim certain benefits.  For example, if you are registered with profound hearing loss you may be entitled to a Freedom Pass, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Attendance Allowance (if over 65).  We can provide advice on these and other benefits. 

What help can I get from the Sensory Enablement Team?

When you contact us we will review your situation, depending on your level of need we will either:

  • Refer you to IEDA for advice and information. IEDA is our Information and Equipment Demonstration area.
Find out more about IEDA
 
 
  • Undertake a more detailed assessment of the impact of your hearing impairment and of your wider health and social care needs. This could result in an individual budget to purchase services that may help you.
Find out more about individual budgets
 


What help is available?

There is a range of help available, such as equipment for your home or help to get around, but this will depend on your needs. You can talk about this with us when you have your assessment. 

Who else can provide help?

There are also national and local groups that provide support for people with sensory loss.

Action on Hearing Loss
Offers information and advice for deaf and hard of hearing people. Also provides services and campaigns to raise awareness of deafness and hearing loss. You can visit their website by following the link below:

Action Hearing Loss
 

Royal Association for Deaf People

Promotes the welfare and interests of deaf people.  Offers support services including employment and legal advice and specialist support for Deaf people from black and ethnic minority communities. You can visit their website by following the link below:

 
Royal Association for Deaf People
 
 

West Ham Deaf Club
Locally, the West Ham Deaf Club promotes BSL and runs social activites:

West Ham Deaf Community Centre
East End Road off Portway
West Ham
London
E15 3QR

Email: paulmichaels40@btinternet.com

Walthamstow Deaf Club
You may also be interested in the Walthamstow Deaf Club - follow the link below for their website:

Walthamstow Deaf Club