A LEADING Edinburgh audiology team has launched a new partnership with charity Deaf Action after witnessing the challenges many people face as a result of changes to their hearing.
Jonathan Bell, audiology director at Specsavers Morningside, sought out the partnership after seeing first-hand the wider impact that changes in hearing can have on people’s lives.
After speaking with a customer who had withdrawn from social activities because conversations became increasingly difficult to follow, Mr Bell recognised that many people need support that extends beyond hearing devices alone.
The new initiative will enable Specsavers Morningside to connect customers directly with Deaf Action’s specialist services, ensuring those who need additional support can access practical advice, communication training, assistive technology and community resources.
After identifying a growing need among customers for wider support, Mr Bell approached Deaf Action’s digital inclusion officer, Suzie Bryant, to explore how the organisations could work together to provide more comprehensive support for local people.
Through the partnership, audiologists at Specsavers Morningside will be able to identify customers who may benefit from additional support and connect them directly with Deaf Action’s services.
Services include digital and communication skills training, advice on assistive technology and opportunities to engage with local support networks.
Mr Bell says: ‘Every day, I meet people whose lives have been affected by changes to their hearing. Many are becoming socially isolated, losing confidence or struggling to stay connected with the people and activities they love.
‘As hearing experts, we wanted to ensure our customers could also access the wider support needed to maintain their independence and quality of life.
‘That’s why I reached out to Deaf Action. They are a highly respected organisation with an outstanding reputation for supporting deaf and hard of hearing people across Scotland.
‘I knew that by working together we could make a real difference to the lives of local people. .
‘This partnership is about ensuring nobody feels they have to face these challenges alone.’
Customers referred through the pathway will receive access to Deaf Action’s services, including tailored sessions designed to restore independence, dedicated workshops helping individuals learn digital communication tools and local peer groups offering guidance and support.
Deaf Action can also provide advice on specialist equipment such as loop systems, flashing alarm clocks and deaf-friendly smoke alarms.
Suzie Bryant, digital inclusion officer at Deaf Action, says:
‘This partnership with Specsavers Morningside reflects a shared commitment to helping deaf and hard of hearing people access the support they need. By facilitating a direct referral channel, together we can intervene early and deliver digital skills training.’
The partnership reflects the team’s commitment to ensuring customers receive support that extends beyond clinical hearing care.
By connecting customers with Deaf Action’s specialist services, Specsavers Morningside is helping to address the wider challenges associated with changes to hearing, including isolation, reduced confidence and difficulties accessing essential communication tools.
Together, Specsavers Morningside and Deaf Action aim to ensure more people across Edinburgh can access practical support that helps them stay independent and connected to their communities.
To book a hearing appointment or speak to a member of the hearing care team at Specsavers Morningside, visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/morningside or call 0131 446 9960.
