Where to go for NHS Audiology

Many people have contacted us raising concerns about recent changes in audiology and hearing aid services across Leeds which happened on 01 April 2024. We created this page to answer frequently asked questions and let you know where you can access NHS Audiology Services.

Who should I contact for audiology and hearing aids?

Westcliffe Health Innovations is the NHS provider of Audiology in Leeds. They can be contacted via telephone on 01274 623 006 or email at whi.audiology@nhs.net. The phone lines are available 7 days a week, but there may be a delay in response times. There is the option to request a call back if the queue is considerably long.

Why can I no longer go to Specsavers for Audiology?

The contract holder for audiology and hearing aid services in Leeds has always been Westcliffe Health Innovations. Until 31 March 2024, Westcliffe Health Innovations subcontracted the service to Specsavers. From 1st April Specsavers no longer provide the audiology service in Leeds.

There was a delay in informing patients of this change as it could only be communicated once the decision had been fully completed and arrangements had been agreed.

Healthwatch Leeds understands that this has caused confusion among many. We are in regular contact with the NHS to try and make this less confusing for people.

Will there still be a hearing aid service in Leeds or will I have to travel to Bradford?

The new system will be catered to each individual and there will be several locations across Leeds for you to go to. You will be offered a choice should a face-to-face appointment be necessary. You should first contact Westcliffe Health Innovations by phone on 01274 623 006 or by email on whi.audiology@nhs.net. They will then advise you on what you need to do based on what their discussion with you has been about.

Locations are currently being explored across Leeds and will be based on individual needs.

What do I do if I need batteries and other consumables or equipment?

Westcliffe Health Innovations will post any batteries and other consumables that you need for hearing aids, and you should contact them about this either by phone 01274 623 006 or by email whi.audiology@nhs.net.

What is Healthwatch Leeds' role in this?

Healthwatch Leeds was not contacted about this change until we received enquiries from people in Leeds who had received a letter from the NHS or a leaflet from Specsavers. Since then, we have had many enquiries about this issue and we have been in contact with the NHS to understand the situation. We as an organisation are committed to ensuring that people's feedback is collected and shared with both service providers and commissioners. This feedback plays a crucial role in continually improving services for people so that they better meet the needs of the community.

If you have any experiences that you wish to share about the change in audiology, please let us know via telephone on 0113 898 0035, text 07717 309 843 or email info@healthwatchleeds.co.uk. We are really keen to hear your feedback.

If you have any questions about the new services then please contact Westcliffe Health Innovations by phone on 01274 623 006 or email whi.audiology@nhs.net

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If you would like to feedback on your experience (good or bad) or if you are unable to get the treatment that you need, get in touch.

Call us on 0113 898 0035 or email info@healthwatchleeds.co.uk or text 07717 309 843

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