Action on Hearing Loss Scotland joined forces with the Western Isles Sensory Centre to deliver a series of information conferences throughout the Western Isles. The conferences were held in three locations - in Stornoway, Benbecula and Barra- and were well attended by people who are deaf or hard of hearing, their family, health and care professionals.

The conferences dealt with wide-ranging issues from the onset of hearing loss, having a hearing check to having a hearing aid fitted. They included talks from Action on Hearing Loss' biomedical experts as well as other specialists. Action on Hearing Loss Scotland staff answered questions from service users and demonstrated additional support and products.

Speaking of his own experience of losing his hearing, the Lord Lieutenant for the Western Isles, Sandy Matheson (image on right) explained that hearing loss had curtained his public life. He said that events such as the conference really helped make a difference to the lives of people with hearing loss.

Delia Henry, Director of Action on Hearing Loss Scotland said: “These conferences have come about as a result of joint working with the Western Isles Sensory Centre and highlight the importance that ourselves and others attach to working with people who are deaf or hard of hearing in the Western Isles.”

The joined venture, supported by the Big Lottery Fund, reached over 90 people in the Western Isles. Many health and care professionals will continue to cascade the information to their colleagues and friends. A staff nurse who attended the Stornoway conference explained: "I've learned a lot today. Everything was explained clearly. I feel I'll be better placed to help patients who are deaf or hard of hearing."

Contact us

Contact Malaika Rose, malaika.rose@hearingloss.org.uk for further information.