Interactive website allows hearing aid users to find venues offering assistive listening tech
Hearing aid users can ‘locate a loop’ on a new interactive map that details venues offering assistive listening technology.
Let’s Hear is a website that allows users to log in and register shops, banks, businesses and public buildings that have a hearing loop. They can also rate how well it works and comment on the support offered by staff.
The site is hosted by the International Hearing Loop Manufacturers Association (IHLMA).
“Let’s Hear is a fantastic tool for people with hearing loss to share information and let each other know where they can get the best service,” said IHLMA Chair Andrew Thomas.
“Being able to hear clearly is a basic right everyone should be able to enjoy when they go shopping or out for entertainment. This website will help people find the venues that best meet their needs so they can decide where to spend their money.”
Let’s Hear also allows businesses to highlight hearing loop provision and any training staff have undertaken. Once information has been uploaded, users will be able to search for loops via the map and postcode search.
Hearing loops amplify the sound users want to hear, cutting out distracting background noise. They are commonly used at till points, customer service desks, reception areas and in larger venues like theatres to enable audience members to hear the dialogue.
“With the advent of COVID-19, hearing loops have become even more important as people struggle to hear staff through protective screens and their ability to lip-read is compromised by face masks,” added Andrew. “Loops can be simply installed and offer a discreet but incredibly effective aid to communication for many of the 12 million people in the UK living with hearing loss.”
IHLMA is an association of the major manufacturers of audio induction loop equipment, aiming to support good quality loop installations around the world. The association can provide support and guidance to anyone interested in Hearing Loop systems.