Deaf News: Minister pledges support for hearing loop systems and pays tribute to charity Hearing Link

Dr Lorraine Gailey, Chief Executive of Hearing Link, welcomed Norman Lamb’s support and commented: “It is tremendous to receive this level of support, a real boost not just to Hearing Link but also to all the individuals and organisations that we have been engaging with around hearing loops and the international conference.

“Although hearing loops are not the only assistive device that should be made available, they offer a practical and cost effective way to help services and facilities become more accessible because the technology is widely available and simple to use.

“The issues that have resulted in loss of confidence with hearing loop technology are ones that are fairly simple to resolve – and awareness and understanding it absolutely key to this. The International Hearing Loop Conference is a wonderful opportunity for the UK and we would urge hard of hearing people and other stakeholders to attend.”

Norman Lamb’s letter says:

Dear Stephen,

I am writing to express my support for the International Hearing Loop Conference taking place this year in Eastbourne. Please pass my greetings on to all the delegates from around the world who are attending this important conference, and also my congratulations to the excellent charity Hearing Link, who have done so much work to make this conference a reality.

Hearing loops play a vitally important role for many hearing aid wearers. You have told me yourself how it would be next to impossible for you to perform your role as the MP for Eastbourne if the Chamber in Parliament and the Committee Rooms were not looped, so I do understand how important this industry is.

I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Hearing Link’s campaign ‘Let’s Loop Eastbourne’ and wish them luck in their determination to ensure every town and city across the UK is properly looped. With many millions of hearing aid wearers across our nation and many more expected in the future, it makes sense for more conference centres, hotels, theatres, banks, supermarkets, and all manner of buildings to be properly kitted out to the benefit of all their customers.

In closing, please do give my best wishes to all the delegates at the conference and I look forward to hearing from you as to how it all went.

Norman Lamb MP

Minister of State for Care and Support

You can find out more about hearing loops, how they benefit hearing aid wearers and what the options and opportunities with current and emerging technology are at the 3^rd International Hearing Loop Conference on 6 & 7 October. It is being held in the beautiful coastal town of Eastbourne, East Sussex.

 Hearing Link is a UK charity for people with hearing loss, their family and friends. To find out more about its services and activities, visit www.hearinglink.org