Visit your GP and ask him to refer you for a hearing test. He may also refer you to the ENT Specialist for an examination.

How much will I be expected to pay? NHS hearing aids are free of charge.

Repairs, maintenance and battery replacement is also free of charge.

There are different types of hearing aids available on the NHS, e.g:

Behind the ear:
Are worn behind the ear and connected to the ear mould by plastic tubing. The majority of people use these aids. They are suitable for mild to severe hearing loss.

In the Ear:
Not generally supplied by the NHS. These are generally only suitable for people with mild to moderate hearing loss only.

Body worn:
These have a 'box' and a cord and an earphone, worn clipped to the clothing with the microphone on the box facing outwards. Usually issued to people with severe hearing loss and those who have difficulty manipulating the controls on small behind, the ear hearing aids.

Digital Hearing Aids (NHS)
Digital hearing aids provided by the NHS are behind the ear type hearing aids. NOT IN THE EAR styles.
Digital aids are programmed by computers to each individual’s type of hearing loss and may offer a better quality hearing experience than that of the analogue hearing aid. But do not cut out background noise.

They DO NOT RESTORE HEARING TO NORMAL QUALITY. They are not suitable to all people with a hearing loss. Whether they are suitable depends on the type and severity of the hearing loss an individual may have.
If you wish to be considered for a digital hearing aid you need to contact the request an application form.

Demand is high and long waiting times are inevitable. Some people will be given a higher priority i.e. War pensioners and people with a duel sensory impairment. You need to clearly state why you feel you should be given priority over other hearing aid users.

If you are an existing hearing aid user that wishes to be considered for a digital hearing aid from the NHS request an application form from:
0844 8118110
If you have never had a hearing test or been issued with an NHS hearing aid then contact your GP who will refer you for a hearing test.