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Hearing Impairment (HI)

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Hearing Impairment (HI)

Contents

What hearing impairment is
Signs and symptoms
Types and levels of hearing loss
Getting assessed and diagnosed
Support in education
Communication strategies and technology
Related guidance

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What hearing impairment is

Hearing impairment (HI) refers to partial or total loss of hearing in one or both ears.
 It can affect speech, communication and learning, particularly if not identified early.

With the right support and technology, most children and adults with hearing loss can develop effective communication and succeed in education.

Related guidance

  • Speech and Language
  • Visual Impairment (VI)
  • Medical Technology Users
  • Moderate Learning Difficulties (MLD)
  • SEN Wellbeing
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    Signs and symptoms

    Signs of hearing impairment may include:

    • not responding when called

    • turning up volume on devices

    • unclear speech or delayed language development

    • difficulty following conversations, especially in noisy environments

    • tiredness after social interaction or concentration

    Check signs of hearing loss
    Learn how to recognise early indicators of hearing difficulties.

    Types and levels of hearing loss

    Conductive Hearing Loss

    Caused by blockages or damage in the outer or middle ear (e.g. glue ear).

    Sensorineural Hearing Loss

    Due to damage in the inner ear or auditory nerve; usually permanent.

    Mixed Hearing Loss

    Combination of conductive and sensorineural loss.

    Hearing loss can range from mild to profound and may be temporary or permanent.

    Explore types of hearing impairment
    Understand how each form affects listening and communication.

    Getting assessed and diagnosed

    Diagnosis is made by:

    • newborn or routine hearing screening

    • audiology assessments

    • ENT (ear, nose and throat) examinations

    • review of speech and communication development

    Assessment determines the type and degree of hearing loss and guides next steps for treatment or support.

    Find out how hearing is assessed and what support is available

    Support in education

    Support may include:

    • classroom seating near the teacher and away from noise

    • visual aids and written instructions

    • radio aids or sound field systems

    • speech and language therapy

    • teaching assistants trained in deaf awareness

    Pupils with HI are usually supported through SEN provision or an EHCP.

    Local authorities may have a Hearing Support Service for schools.

    Read about SEN and communication support for hearing loss

    Communication strategies and technology

    Helpful tools and approaches:

    • Hearing aids or cochlear implants

    • British Sign Language (BSL) or Makaton

    • Speech reading (lipreading)

    • Captions and subtitled videos

    • quiet zones for listening and learning

    External resources:

    NHS: Hearing loss overview
    NDCS: National Deaf Children’s Society
    Action on Hearing Loss (RNID)

    Get support for hearing impairment

    Search for speech therapists, audiology experts and teachers of the deaf who support children with hearing loss.

    Find SEN and communication specialists near you