The See Hear Centre is on the move this Spring

Local charity service which offers free support to people with sight and hearing loss is on the move this spring.

The See Hear Centre has been operating at its current premises for the past 17 years, thanks to the generosity of Devon County Council. However alternative premises are now required for the service.

Specialist sight and hearing team offering free support

The See Hear Centre was established by local charity Living Options Devon, following consultation with local people who needed support with sight and hearing problems in North Devon.  The specialist team offers free support, equipment information, and impartial advice about living with sight loss, hearing loss, and tinnitus.  This support enables people to maintain their independence and keep in touch with friends, family, and the local community.  On average the See Hear team support 130 local people each month.

‘I had no idea that a seemingly simple piece of equipment could change my life so positively. Things are so much better now. I feel much more positive. See Hear Centre helped me to continue to do things for myself. This helps me feel independent and confident.”

comments from Graham who is a regular user of the service.

1 in 6 of us will develop a hearing impairment

The friendly See Hear team understands that as we get older hearing and sight issues are more common.  For example, 1 in 6 of the population has a hearing impairment which increases to 1 in 3 in over 50-year olds and sight loss affects 1 in 5 people aged over 75. They work alongside NHS and Local Authority services to fill gaps in services and despite Covid-19 and the premises being closed, have continued to provide support, information and advice over the phone and online.

“It is imperative for the service to continue that we find a new home.  Our elderly population will increase in the coming years so we are working really hard with Devon County Council to ensure we are still here to support the sight and hearing needs of North Devon and Torridge residents.  We have a couple of options, however, if anyone has any suggestions regarding a possible Barnstaple based premises for us please do get in touch.”

Jenny of the See Hear Centre

Suggestions please

If you know of a premises in North Devon that might be suitable for the Sight and Hearing team they would like to hear from you, all suggestions welcome. You can contact the team by calling 01392 459 222 or email info@livingoptions.org or text: 07856 426940.   

If you would like to speak to someone about sight or hearing loss or find out more about the service you can do on our dedicated website page See Hear Centre.

Listen back to Jenny speaking to radio presenter Laura James of The Voice FM – North Devon