Hearing aid grants in the UK

Yes. In the UK, hearing loss can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. This means wearing a hearing aid is part of managing this disability, ensuring equal opportunities and access.

It also means the National Health Service (NHS) offers free hearing aids to those who need them. But how do you qualify for a free NHS hearing aid? 

• Firstly, you’ll need to book an appointment with your GP, who can then refer you to an audiologist for a hearing assessment. 

• If you're found to need a hearing aid, you'll be provided for free as a long-term loan.

• You’ll also be eligible for free hearing aid batteries and repairs.

  
  

But what do NHS hearing aids look like? Well, NHS options are functional and designed for comfort. This means you’ll usually be limited to behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid options. NHS hearing aids. They might not have all the features of private market options, but they are effective in improving hearing.

Ultimately, getting hearing aids through the NHS is a great option if you're looking for a cost-effective solution to hearing loss. While they may not offer the variety found in the private sector, NHS hearing aids are reliable and free. Remember, your hearing is essential, and the NHS is there to help you hear better.

Not everyone wishes to get their hearing aids on the NHS — and there are many reasons you might want to go for private hearing aids. You generally have a lot more choice in terms of hearing aid design and the features available. For example, you may want in-ear hearing aids, which are more discreet than BTE alternatives — you might even want invisible hearing aids. Plus you can choose your hearing aid provider. 

However, it’s important to note that private hearing aids come with a higher price tag. 

In the UK, the cost of private hearing aids varies widely depending on the type, style, and features. So it’s tricky to define an exact figure. As a general guide, however, we’ve put together a table of average UK hearing aid prices. We suggest familiarising yourself with these prices and seeing how they fit with your budget.

It's essential to balance your specific hearing needs and budget when choosing a hearing aid. Remember, investing in the right hearing aid not only improves hearing but also enhances overall quality of life. It’s also wise to shop around and compare hearing aid providers to get the best hearing aid at a great price. 

In our experience, there are many reasons you may opt for private hearing aids rather than getting them on the NHS. Private options often offer advanced features, a wider range of styles, and the flexibility to choose your provider. 

But what about covering the higher cost? The good news is that there are grants and funding options available to help make private hearing aids more affordable. These options vary in their eligibility requirements, so it’s worth exploring what's available. Whether it's through charities, health insurance, or government schemes, financial support can make a big difference in accessing the best hearing aid for your needs.

So, what are some of the main hearing aid grants and schemes available in the UK?

Disabled Students Allowance

Are you in full-time higher education? Although hearing loss is more common in older people, many younger people also experience it, and this can have a big impact on your education. 

Fortunately, the Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA) in England offers vital support for higher education students with disabilities — including those with hearing impairments. It's a lifeline, ensuring that students who require additional help, like hearing aids, aren't at a disadvantage during their studies.

Eligibility is straightforward. You need to be a UK student with a disability, long-term health condition, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty like dyslexia. It's available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, part-time or full-time.

The allowance can cover the costs of specialist equipment — yes, that includes hearing aids. Plus, it can fund non-medical helpers, such as British Sign Language interpreters or note-takers, essential for an inclusive educational experience. The maximum you can get varies from year to year. However, it currently stands at £26,948 per year — although the exact amount you can receive depends on your individual needs, not your household income.

Applying is simple. You'll need to provide proof of your disability and undergo a needs assessment to determine what support you require. The DSA doesn't just provide financial support; it opens doors to a more accessible and rewarding educational journey.

If you're a student with hearing loss, this allowance could be the support you need to excel in your studies. 

Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)

While many people develop hearing loss or tinnitus over time due to natural ageing, certain workplaces and careers can lead to damaged hearing. Have you experienced hearing loss due to your job? If so, we recommend looking into the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB), which could be a significant help in covering your hearing aid costs.

The IIDB is a UK government scheme designed to support you if you've suffered a workplace injury or developed a disability due to your job. It's a valuable resource, especially if your work has impacted your hearing.

To qualify for this benefit, your hearing loss must be substantial — at least 50 decibels in each ear, primarily caused by noise at your workplace. It's important to understand that this loss should be due to damage to your inner ear. Does this sound like your situation? If yes, you might be eligible for financial support through the IIDB.

Currently, the amount you can receive ranges from £44.30 to £221.50 per week, depending on the level of your disability. This financial assistance can be a lifeline, especially if you need hearing aids or other support to manage your hearing loss. We know hearing aids can be costly, so this benefit can ease the financial burden significantly.

Hearing aid grants and schemes can change frequently, with new funding options becoming available as others close. It can be helpful to have an understanding of previous hearing aid grants as they give an insight into potential funding options that may arise in the future.  We suggest keeping an eye out for new grant options and updates to existing financial support. 

Veterans Hearing Fund

The Veterans Hearing Fund, initiated by the Royal British Legion in 2015, was a remarkable initiative dedicated to assisting veterans with hearing loss.

Although this fund is no longer open, its impact has been profound. Over its operational period, it provided around 2,400 grants, helping veterans access hearing devices, peripherals, and therapies not covered by the NHS. While the fund has closed, its legacy of support and care continues to resonate.

In most cases, private health insurance won’t pay for your hearing aids. However, depending on your insurance provider and policy, you may be able to get partial funding. For instance, some insurance companies will cover hearing tests and assessments but not the hearing aids themselves. 

We recommend contacting your health insurance provider directly if you have any queries about hearing aid coverage.

It’s important to note that finding the right hearing aid provider is just as vital as securing funding. With various grants and schemes available to assist with the costs of hearing aids, your next step is to ensure you choose the best provider for your specific needs. This is where SpotDif's intuitive price comparison tool comes in handy. 

Our handy comparison tool offers a user-friendly platform that allows you to effortlessly search and compare audiologists and hearing aid providers across the UK. 

Whether it's advanced technology, specific design preferences, or budget constraints, we’ll empower you with the information you need. Find the perfect hearing aids for you with SpotDif. Any questions? Feel free to get in touch with our friendly team.