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AoHL Hearing Matters Report 2015

A new report has been published by Action on Hearing Loss which calls for action across the UK to tackle the growing prevalence and devastating impact of deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss.

It’s the second document called Hearing Matters to be delivered by AoHL – the original was in 2011 and called for a committment to action from the Government.  Now says the charity there must be action.  “National priorities must be translated into local action,” says Chief Executive, Paul Breckell.    Pointing out that hearing loss now affects over 11 million people in the UK – one fifth of the population, the report says employers and health services need to plan for the increasing numbers of people with hearing loss, and all areas must continue to provide free NHS hearing aids for everyone who needs them.

Mr Breckell points out that the impact of a hearing aid in helping people communicate with friends and family, stay work and avoid costly care is priceless and with further investment cures for hearing loss and tinnitus are “within our grasp.”

“Responding to these challenges requires innovation and new ways of working. Public, private and voluntary sector organisations must work together to make sure people with deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss enjoy the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss are major public health issues. Only with concerted, urgent action will we create a society where people can fulfil their potential and live the life that they choose,” he says.