Noise-induced hearing loss and hearing services
What is noise‑induced hearing loss?
Noise‑induced hearing loss is permanent hearing damage caused by long‑term exposure to loud noise. This can happen at work or through noisy activities such as machinery use, music, shooting or motorsport. It usually affects both ears and develops gradually over time.
Common signs of hearing loss
You may notice communication is difficult, frustrating, and beginning to impact on your life. Some of the symptoms of hearing loss include:
- feeling like people are mumbling or speaking in soft voices
- needing to turn the volume up on the TV or radio
- needing to ask people to repeat themselves
- difficulty hearing on the phone or missing the phone when it rings
- finding having conversations more tiring or fatiguing, particularly in noisy environments.
What support and compensation can be expected for an accepted noise-induced hearing loss claim?
If your claim is accepted, the Return to Work scheme may pay for:
- Hearing tests (audiograms)
- Hearing aid assessments and fittings
- Hearing aids, batteries and related devices.
You may also be entitled to a lump sum payment for permanent hearing impairment.
Date printed: 12 Oct 2026
