Government in hearing loss pledge

A London-based charity has welcomed the Government’s commitment to put hearing loss at the forefront of its ongoing strategy to improve health outcomes for people with long-term conditions.

Action on Hearing Loss said it is “delighted” that the Department of Health will consider how its Long Term Conditions Outcomes Strategy can bring benefits for people with hearing loss.

Health Minister Paul Burstow said he recognises the charity’s Hearing Matters report as an important step in raising the profile of hearing loss and confirmed that he has asked officials to consider how to take hearing loss on board as the Government’s strategy develops.

He said: “Hearing loss can have a huge impact at both personal and societal levels, and more needs to be done to improve outcomes for people with hearing loss. Hearing loss is not just a health issue, a cross-Government approach would bring benefits.

“The new Long Term Conditions Outcomes Strategy, due to be published later in the year, will consider how Government departments, local authorities and the voluntary sector can work together to help prevent or delay the onset of long-term conditions such as hearing loss, and provide support at the appropriate times and places in their lives.

“I have asked officials to work with Action on Hearing Loss to consider how to take hearing loss on board as the Long Term Conditions Outcomes Strategy develops.”

The Department of Health is also re-establishing an Audiology Advisory Group to be a forum for Action on Hearing Loss and other key stakeholders to discuss how to improve outcomes for patients with hearing loss.

Action on Hearing Loss’s managing director of external engagement Sherine Krause said: “We’re delighted to have persuaded the Government, through Hearing Matters, that the everyday impact of hearing loss – which can lead to social isolation, depression and mental health problems – needs to be addressed.

“We look forward to engaging with the Audiology Advisory Group to ensure that the Long Term Conditions Outcomes Strategy produces the best outcomes and support responsive to the individual needs of people with hearing loss.”

To read the Hearing Matters report, visit www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/hearingmatters.

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