PEOPLE are being offered the chance learn more about the work of a specialist medical unit.

The audiology team at Darlington Memorial Hospital is holding an open day for anyone to come along and find out more about the support and services available for people experiencing hearing loss or associated problems – and there’s much more than many people realise.

Joanne Close, audiology services manager, at County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust, said everyone is welcome to attend the event.

She said, “Around 40 per cent of people over 50 in the UK have some kind of hearing loss which can affect their daily lives, their ability to interact and even, potentially, their ability to keep themselves safe.

“As with many of the services offered across the Trust, the kind of support and care audiologists can offer improves and changes all the time as new products and technologies and treatment options become available.

“Our open event is an opportunity for people to come and find out what’s available and to discuss concerns they have about hearing problems or dizziness.

“Audiologists can also do balance assessments, which not everyone realises. We’ll be happy to talk to them about some of the options to further investigate symptoms through our own or other clinics, following a referral from their GP.

“We can also offer advice about accessories, including NHS hearing aids and conditions such as tinnitus.

“Everyone is welcome to come and chat with us on Friday, October, 4, at any time between 11am – 2pm. We’ll be in Hollies Restaurant, on the lower ground floor at the hospital.”