Hearing Impairment (HI)
Local Providers for Hearing Impairment
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
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.
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.
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