Millions of UK workers confess that hearing loss is impacting their job performance, yet 64% have not sought a check-up to address the issue.
A survey of 2,000 working adults in the UK revealed that 35% struggle with hearing while at work.
This has resulted in 37% frequently asking colleagues to repeat themselves and 22% making errors. Furthermore, 15% feel their ability to perform their job effectively has been compromised.
Shockingly, 72% have never discussed their hearing problems with their employer, despite 84% acknowledging that clear hearing is vital for their role.
The study was commissioned by Specsavers, which is releasing the ‘It’s Time to Talk About Hearing’ report to highlight the effects of hearing loss and urge the Government to make NHS hearing care more accessible for all.
According to recent NHS data, over 120,000 people are currently on waiting lists for audiology services in England, with an average wait time of 18 weeks for hospital-based hearing services.
Yasmin Qureshi MP, who suffers from hearing loss and will attend a parliamentary reception this week to launch the report, stated: “I know through my own first-hand experience that the impact of unaddressed hearing loss is profound. It affects employment, complicates communication and social interactions – often leading to social isolation and loneliness.”
“It is crucial that we tackle the postcode lottery that hinders some individuals from easily accessing hearing care,” says a report.
A survey found that of the 20% who discussed their situation with their employer, 19% noticed a change in how they were treated, and 17% were even excluded from meetings or discussions.
This led to 22% feeling frustrated and even prompted 18% to contemplate leaving their job.
A Separate research by RNID (formerly known as Action on Hearing Loss) supports these findings, revealing that 40% of those who took early retirement did so due to hearing loss.
TV doctor and GP Dr Zoe Williams, who is also part of the report launch, stated: “Now is the time to discuss hearing and address the serious impact hearing loss has on working individuals and those who feel compelled to take early retirement.
“Most people don’t need to let hearing loss disrupt their careers or result in them leaving their jobs. Many could significantly benefit from having a hearing check and other audiology services made more widely available on the high street.”
Carina Hummel, managing director for audiology at Specsavers, which suggests that government action could free up 500,000 GP appointments per year and enable patients to be seen within three weeks, said: “As experts in eye and hearing care, we are ready and able to support the NHS to do this.
“Our hearing experts, with their clinical skills and accessible locations, are perfectly placed to deliver these services, easing the load on the NHS. This move will help improve patient outcomes, and support access for patients.”