Hearing technology and home accessibility

Hearing aids and cochlear implants

Hearing aids amplify sound. Cochlear implants use an implanted system and external processor to provide electrical stimulation to the hearing nerve. Suitability, fitting and follow up are clinical decisions for the specialist team.

A device does not restore typical hearing or guarantee access to every spoken word. Ask about listening in noise, distance, fatigue and your child’s understanding of language.

Radio aids and remote microphones

These systems send a speaker’s voice to a compatible hearing device. Ask your audiology team or Teacher of the Deaf about suitability, compatibility, trials and support.

• Agree who uses the microphone and how it is passed between people.
• Check what happens in group discussion, practical work and play.
• Have a daily check and a clear route for faults.
• Ask the child what helps and what feels uncomfortable.

A manageable daily routine

• Follow the team’s instructions for checks, charging, batteries and cleaning.
• Keep a named contact and repair route somewhere easy to find.
• Let nursery or school know what to do if equipment stops working.
• Plan communication access for bathing, swimming, sleep or time without devices.
• Check water and sport guidance for the exact model with the clinical team or manufacturer.

Think visually at home

Consider lighting, sightlines, captions and alerts that your child can see or feel. Doorbells, alarm clocks, smoke alarms and baby monitors can have visual or vibrating options.

Walthew House’s resource centre can demonstrate sensory equipment. Ask the council or fire service about assessment and appropriate safety equipment for your household. Avoid relying on a phone notification as your only emergency alert.

Before buying equipment

Ask whether the NHS, education service or another statutory service is responsible for providing the support. Confirm compatibility and suitability before spending money.

Grant applications may need professional support and a formal quotation. Birkdale does not fund building alterations under its April 2026 guidance.

Explore grant routes · Find local contacts.