For many people, hearing loss is about more than simply finding it difficult to hear. It can affect your confidence, make conversations harder, and sometimes lead to feeling left out or less independent. Things you once took for granted – chatting with friends, watching television, using the telephone or joining in with activities – can become more difficult.
You don’t have to manage hearing loss on your own.
Vision Northumberland’s Hearing Loss Service provides friendly, practical support to adults living with hearing loss across Northumberland. We take the time to listen, understand what matters to you and find solutions that can make everyday life easier.
Our aim is simple: to help you stay confident, independent and connected.
Support that’s right for you
Everyone’s experience of hearing loss is different. What works for one person may not work for another.
Our free Hearing Loss Assessment Service offers appointments at our resource centre and outreach venues across Northumberland.
During your appointment, our Hearing Loss Coordinator will take the time to talk with you about how hearing loss affects your everyday life.
We can offer advice about:
- Hearing aids and communication aids
- Equipment that can make everyday activities easier
- Cleaning and caring for hearing aids
- Replacing hearing aid batteries
- Using technology to support communication
- Other specialist services that may be able to help
You can also try different equipment and solutions to see what works best for you.
It’s not simply about hearing better – it’s about making everyday life easier.
Building confidence
Hearing loss can sometimes make people feel less confident, particularly in busy places or when talking to people they don’t know. Some people may start avoiding social activities or stop doing things they once enjoyed. Over time, this can lead to loneliness and isolation.
At Vision Northumberland, we understand that feeling confident and connected is just as important as practical support.
We offer opportunities to meet other people, take part in activities and share experiences with others who understand what living with hearing loss can be like.
Our Living Well with Hearing Loss sessions also provide useful information, practical tips and ideas to help you feel more confident in managing everyday challenges.
We also offer introductory British Sign Language (BSL) training, helping people develop new communication skills and improve communication with people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Technology can help
There are lots of devices and technology that can make life easier when you have hearing loss – but knowing what is available isn’t always easy.
We can help you explore different options and find something that suits you and your everyday life.
This can include advice about:
- Smartphones, tablets and computers
- Communication and assistive technology
- Hearing loops
- Equipment to make everyday communication easier
We won’t tell you that there is one solution that works for everyone. We’ll help you find what works for you.
Staying connected
One of the most important things we can offer is the opportunity to stay connected.
Hearing loss can sometimes make people feel left out of conversations or activities. Meeting other people who have similar experiences can make a real difference.
Our activities and peer support groups provide opportunities to:
- Meet new people
- Share experiences and ideas
- Try new activities
- Build confidence
- Enjoy spending time with others
We also provide information and raise awareness of hearing loss, helping families, carers and the wider community better understand the challenges people can face.
You don’t have to do it alone
Whether you have recently started experiencing hearing loss, need advice about equipment, or simply want to feel more confident, we’re here to help.
Our support is built around you. We can provide practical advice, emotional support, information, training and opportunities to connect with others.
Most importantly, we’ll listen to what you need and help you find the right support.
Living with hearing loss doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things you enjoy. With the right support, you can stay active, independent and connected.
Need some help?
If you or someone you know is living with hearing loss, please get in touch.
Call Sandra on 01670 514316 or email info@vision-northumberland.org