Page 42 - Primary Care Audiology

Annexes

Equality and health inequalities statement

For millions of people in the UK, hearing loss is a permanent,
progressive and long-term condition which can substantially affect
the ability to carry out typical daily activities.
With the right support at the right time in the right place, we can
significantly mitigate the impact of hearing loss. Unfortunately, this
is often not the case in the UK today, and many are unaware of the
benefits of seeking help. Those who try can face avoidable barriers
to care.

Many adults with hearing loss that is significant enough to require
help will often have at least two protected characteristics – older
age and disability. Children with permanent hearing loss can
experience barriers to accessing the support, education and care
they deserve. Often, Deaf people who use BSL face barriers in
accessing many services, including healthcare.

In primary care audiology, we set out a road map that will benefit
millions across the UK. It is, however, not the only action that needs
to be taken. We must also do more to

• Raise awareness about preventing hearing loss and its impacts
• Support Deaf people and the use of BSL
• Protect and promote other specialist services that people
depend on.

We will continue contributing to this broader body of work through
a partnership with the Hearing Loss and Deafness Alliance and
other collaborative networks.

42 NCHA Primary care audiology – accessible ear and hearing care for all 43