Your top ten questions about hearing aids answered!

New to hearing aids or struggling with your current provision? Then this event is for you!

"Pardon? Sorry love, say that again?"

"Everyone just mumbles these days, if you ask me."

"He's got the telly up so loud the whole street can hear it."

If any of that sounds familiar — said by you, or about you — you're not alone, and you haven't done anything wrong by not acting on it yet.

You're not imagining it. And you don't have to work it out on your own.

Join us for a free, friendly event in Sheffield where independent experts answer the ten hearing aid questions people ask most, in plain English, with no jargon and no catch.

Four things worth knowing before you read on:

• Free 90-minute sessions, running three times across the day — pick whichever time suits you.
• Independent, honest answers on NHS and private options, with nobody trying to sell you anything.
• Bring a partner, son, daughter or friend, and enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits while you're here.
• Our special guest Lindsay Holmes from Phonak will be sharing all the latest exciting news from a brand new hearing aid: Phonak Audeo Eon. There is some really exciting technology being released with Eon which had its world wide launch on 24th September.

Reserve your free place — Saturday 24 October 2026 Hallam View, Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus

(2) Your Top 10 Hearing Aid Questions — Answered in Plain English

1. Do I really need a hearing aid? Hearing loss happens slowly and imperceptibly; many people have a hearing loss they are unaware of, we'll give you the signs to look out for.

2. NHS or private — what's the real difference? We'll explain waiting times, choice of technology and aftercare for both routes, plainly and without steering you either way.

3. How much do hearing aids really cost? Prices range from free on the NHS to several thousand pounds privately — we'll show what your money actually buys.

4. Which hearing aid is "best"? And why?

5. Will hearing aids make my ears lazy? Some people worry that once they start using them it will make their hearing worse, or they won't be able to manage without them.

6. What can I realistically expect to hear? Why hearing aids aren't a panacea and what you can do to maximise your hearing aids and listening skills.

7. Will people be able to see it? Hearing aids come in a variety of colours and all shapes and sizes  - what will work for you aesthetically.

8. Are Bluetooth and rechargeable aids worth it? Do they even work well?

9. Can a hearing aid help my tinnitus? 

10. Is there really a link between hearing loss and dementia? We'll explain the evidence calmly, without scare tactics.

(3) Why This Event Feels Different

We know the hesitation. Plenty of people have walked past a hearing aid shop, glanced in the window, and kept walking — worried they'd end up talked into something they hadn't planned to buy. That's exactly why this event exists.

• Completely free, no obligation. There's nothing to buy and no expectation that you'll book anything afterwards.
• Independent and even-handed. Byrom Audiology isn't tied to one manufacturer, so you get a fair, balanced view of NHS and private options alike.
• No pressure, ever. Nobody will approach you with a clipboard or chase you up afterwards. You're welcome to listen, ask a question or two, and simply head home.
• Family and friends warmly welcome. Hearing loss affects the whole household, so bring whoever's been gently nudging you to get checked. You can book two tickets.
• Tea, coffee and biscuits throughout. A proper cuppa while you listen, and plenty of time for questions in a relaxed room.

Most people wait around seven years between first noticing a hearing problem and actually doing something about it. If that sounds like you, you're not behind — you're right on time.

(4) How the Day Runs — Choose the Sitting That Suits You

The same three short talks run in every sitting, so you only need to attend one. Simply pick whichever time fits your Saturday.

• Morning sitting: 9:40am–11:10am (doors open 9:30 am for tea and coffee)
• Early afternoon sitting: 12:20pm–2:30pm (doors open 12:10pm)
• Late afternoon sitting: 2:40pm–4:10pm (doors open 2:30pm)

Each 90-minute sitting includes three short, easy-to-follow talks, a look at real hearing aid styles and technology, and time at the end for your own questions — only if you want to ask any.

(5) Meet Your Speakers

Nicole Vasey — Audiologist, Byrom Audiology Nicole spends her days helping people across Sheffield make sense of their hearing, without rushing anyone into a decision. She's known for explaining things plainly and patiently. On the day, she'll cover the early signs of hearing loss and how NHS and private care actually compare.

Lindsay Holmes — Phonak Lindsay works with Phonak, one of the world's leading hearing aid manufacturers, and brings a down-to-earth view of how the technology has moved on. She'll talk through the latest Audeo Eon hearing aid that has just launched.

Peter Byrom — Audiologist and Tinnitus Specialist, Byrom Audiology Peter has years of experience in both NHS and private practice, with a particular interest complex cases.

(6) Event Details and Your Next Step

Event: Your Top 10 Hearing Aid Questions Answered Date: Saturday 24 October 2026 Times: 10:00am–11:30am · 1:00pm–2:30pm · 3:30pm–5:00pm Venue: Hallam View, Owen Building (Level 6), Sheffield Hallam University, City Campus, Howard Street, Sheffield S1 1WB

• Easy to reach. Central Sheffield, close to tram and bus routes, and a short walk from the railway station. Paid parking is available nearby.
• Lift access. Hallam View is on Level 6, with lift access throughout for anyone who needs it.
• Comfortable facilities. Comfortable seating, a hearing-loop system where available, and regular breaks.
• Refreshments. Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided at every sitting.
• Cost. Completely free, with nothing to pay and nothing to buy on the day.

Spaces are limited for each sitting so the room stays comfortable and everyone can hear properly, so please reserve your place in advance.

Reserve your free place today

You don't have to decide anything on the day. Just come along, have a cuppa, and get the answers you need.