Living with hearing loss can be challenging. It can leave you feeling isolated and lacking confidence. If you have recently been diagnosed with hearing loss, there are numerous resources in Shropshire offer support, education, and community services to help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life. This guide explores the local support groups, educational resources, and community services available for hearing-impaired individuals in Shropshire.
Local Support Groups
Shropshire Deaf and Hard of Hearing Forum
The Shropshire Deaf and Hard of Hearing Forum is a community organisation that brings together people with hearing impairments (and their families) to share experiences and support each other. They organise regular meetings, social events, and workshops focused on improving the lives of individuals with hearing loss. More information can be found on their website.
Hearing Link Support Groups
Hearing Link provides support groups across the UK, including in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. These groups offer a safe space for individuals with hearing loss to connect, share their experiences, and receive emotional support. The meetings cover various topics, from managing hearing aids to coping with the psychological impacts of hearing loss. Visit the Hearing Link website to find a group near you.
Educational Resources
Learning British Sign Language
There are many resources available to those who would like to do courses in BSL. For example, there are courses at North Shropshire College, the Sign Café in Shrewsbury as well as many online courses to choose from.
Libraries and Community Centres
Local libraries and community centres across Shropshire frequently offer workshops and classes on topics related to hearing loss. These may include sign language courses, lip-reading classes, and seminars on the latest hearing aid technology. Libraries are also great resources for books and materials related to hearing loss. For example, Shrewsbury Library offers a regular Hearing Loss Support Hub, where people can get hearing aid batteries replaced, cleaned and services.
Community Services
Deafness Support Network (DSN)
The DSN offers a wide range of services for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, including interpreting services, advocacy, and social groups. They work to ensure that individuals with hearing loss have access to the support they need to lead fulfilling lives. For more information, visit the DSN website
Audiology Services at Cambrian Hearing or other Hearing Care Providers
Laura at Cambrian Hearing, Oswestry, provides comprehensive hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and ongoing support for individuals with hearing loss. She offers personalised care plans to help patients manage their hearing loss effectively. If you cannot come to Cambrian hearing, find a hearing care provider you trust.
Shropshire Council Sensory Inclusion Service (SIS)
This service, provided by Shropshire council offers support to children with hearing and/or visual impairments, from birth to the age of 25. They offer a wide range of support , at home and in education, to ensure that young people achieve their potential and have a high quality of life. Visit the SIS website for more information.
Finding Local Resources
There will be more resources available than those listed in this blog. It is well worth doing your own research. Finding the right local community to you will allow you to build a strong support network and access tailored local information. Here’s some ideas of where else to look.
Online Directories
Websites like Hearing Link and the British Deaf Association provide directories of local resources, including audiologists, support groups, and community services tailored for those with hearing loss.
Social Media and Online Communities
Platforms like Facebook and Reddit have groups dedicated to hearing loss where members share information about local resources and support. Any town the size of Ellesmere will have a community news page. Search for groups focused on Shropshire or broader UK-based hearing loss support.
Local News and Community Boards
Keep an eye on local newspapers, community bulletin boards, and online community groups for announcements about workshops, support groups, and other resources for individuals with hearing loss.
If you are living with hearing loss, you don’t have to feel isolated. From local support groups and educational resources to comprehensive community services, numerous avenues are available in Shropshire and beyond to help you manage your hearing loss and improve your overall wellbeing. Whether you’re seeking peer support, educational workshops, or community services, Shropshire offers a wealth of resources to help you lead a more connected and fulfilling life. Reach out, get connected, and take the first step towards better hearing health and a more engaged life.
