FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Audiological Services
If you have difficulty hearing your GP will arrange a referral to an Ear, Nose & Throat consultant who will determine if a hearing aid will be of benefit. If it is, you will be referred to the audiology department at your local hospital who will provide an NHS aid for you free of charge. Batteries are replaced free & repairs can be arranged.
If you prefer to buy a hearing aid privately the RNID has information. The private sector is regulated by the Hearing Aid Council and all private dispensers must be registered with them.
Surrey Deaf Services, part of social services, provide a range of services to deaf and deafened people of all ages across Surrey. Services include information & advice, assessments for equipment to assist daily living, social work and support groups. RNID have information on benefits, equipment and support for deaf people.
Surrey Interpreting Agency can provide British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters to aid communication between deaf and hearing people, as well as note takers, lip speakers & communication support workers. There is a charge for this service. The Association of Sign Language Interpreters (ASLI) has members across the country.
deafPLUS is a voluntary organisation offering training, information and support to deaf people. They have a mobile unit which visits locations in Surrey selling aids & equipment for hearing impaired people.
Services for deafblind children & adults are provided by SAVI in Surrey & Sense nationally.
The Dorothy Miles Cultural Centre has a programme of activities for deaf, deafened and hearing people that include deaf culture, BSL courses and support and information.
The Royal Association for Deaf People provide services for deaf people with a learning disability and/or a mental health issue that include advocacy, deaf awareness training, support using a hearing aid as well as courses on Makaton & lip reading.
SID, 0800 0439395, has information on hard of hearing support groups in Surrey.+ Additional Information: > About deafness & hearing loss
More information on living with a disability in Surrey can be found at www.askenid.org.uk and in the leaflet Information for You available from SID (Social Information on Disability), 0800 0439395.