ILC-UK launch Commission on hearing loss

Hearing loss – a growing problem

The ILC-UK has launched a Commission seeking to address the significant and growing problem of hearing loss in the UK. Six million people in the UK experience hearing loss at a level where they would benefit from wearing a hearing aid and this is set to increase to 10 million by 2037.

This is an independent commission, with the ILC-UK providing the governance and secretariat while the Commissioners, drawn from a wide range of different sectors, will drive the agenda and findings.

As part of this high level Commission, we are seeking written evidence from a range of experts on two key aspects of the debate:
How can we ensure that hearing loss is detected early? Many individuals live for years without either realising that they have hearing loss or because they do not seek support. We welcome submissions around the following questions:

• How can we de-stigmatise hearing loss?
• Whether and to what extent it is possible to improve the referral process?
• Are there alternative models to support early detection?
• How can technology improve early detection?

How can we deliver better solutions to reduce the adverse impacts of hearing loss? Early detection is only one part of the jigsaw, we must also propose solutions to reduce the wide-ranging effects of hearing loss. We welcome submissions on the following questions:

• How do we ensure wider take-up of hearing aids?
• What forms of service delivery models are needed to meet the needs of a growing hearing impaired population?
• How do we remove barriers to employment for the hearing impaired?
• How do we improve health and social care for those suffering with hearing loss?
• How do we raise public awareness about, and sensitivity to, hearing loss?

The final report is intended for a policy and public audience, so written submissions should be accessible but at the same time, informative, thought provoking, ideally challenging while offering solutions/recommendations. The written submissions will form a key part of the evidence base for a final report to be published in July. To submit written evidence please email: benfranklin@ilcuk.org.uk. Please note there is a final deadline of any submissions of 13th June.

We are also holding two high level evidence sessions in the House of Lords on the above subjects on the afternoon of Thursday 5th June, House of Lords (early detection) and the afternoon of Tuesday 17th June, 15:30 – 17:30, House of Lords (solutions). If you would like to attend please contact Ben Franklin for further details. Please note that places are restricted.

Please note:
Authors are requested to provide a very short biography of themselves / organisations of no more than four lines to sit alongside their submission. Due to time constraints, we will only be making minor amendments/proofing so all submissions need to be of a publishable standard, ILC-UK reserves the right not to publish if material is deemed inappropriate. All authors and their organisation will be credited in the final report and any associated publicity and promotional material linked to the response. This project has been kindly made possible by Boots Hearingcare.

The Commission on Hearing Loss: Background Briefing Note

ILC