RUTHERGLEN MSP BACKS SERVICE SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS

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RUTHERGLEN MSP BACKS SERVICE SUPPORTING PEOPLE WITH HEARING LOSS

Clare Haughey MSP is backing a project urging people to get their hearing checked and start benefiting from using hearing aids and assistive equipment.

The local MSP met with the organisation Action on Hearing Loss Scotland to discuss their ‘Hear to Inform and Connect’ service – which is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.

The service, which reaches out via local community and social groups, aims to encourage older people to get their hearing checked and utilise a range of support measures to minimise the impact of hearing loss in everyday life.

Action on Hearing Loss Scotland’s staff and volunteers can carry out basic hearing screenings, they hold talks in care homes and local community groups, and they can visit libraries and leisure centres to deliver information.

In recent months, the service has visited Cambuslang Library to speak with local residents about the support they can offer.

Commenting, Clare Haughey MSP said:

“Action on Hearing Loss Scotland tell me that people wait, on average, 10 years from the point that they first notice hearing difficulties before going for a hearing test.

“I’m pleased to back their calls for older people to get their hearing tested as soon as they start struggling to follow conversations. Digital hearing aids and modern technology, such as amplified phones or personal listeners, can help many to hear more clearly and stay connected with family, friends and neighbours.

“Action on Hearing Loss Scotland can help, not only individuals, but community and social groups too. If you think your group may benefit from an information session from the charity, then please feel free to contact Action on Hearing Loss Scotland to see if they can help.”

Teri Devine, Director of Action on Hearing Loss Scotland, added:

“We appreciate Clare Haughey MSP’s support for our Hear to Inform and Connect service.

“We would like to engage with as many local community and social groups as possible to reach older Rutherglen residents and provide reassurance that getting your hearing checked really is a straight forward process and highlight how hearing aids can bring great benefits for people who have their deafness diagnosed as early as possible.”

For more information about the service, email: info.scotland@hearingloss.org.uk, or telephone/text: 07388 227407.

ENDS

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Below is a photograph of Clare Haughey MSP with Action on Hearing Loss Scotland’s Eileen Clarkson.