I'd forgotten what certain noises sounded like

A hearing loss – however minor - can be a very distressing time. Often people feel embarrassed to admit that they cannot hear as well as they used to and delay seeking help. For many it can be a very frustrating experience as well as being isolating.

Janet Lane first suspected that she was losing her hearing 18 years ago but did not go to see her GP straight away.

"I was aware of my hearing loss but I didn't want to face up to it and admit it. By going to the GP the loss would be confirmed and it took me a bit of time to come to terms with that.

"I was so frustrated with my hearing loss at work that I threatened to resign. It was then that I got put on the Access to Work scheme which arranged for me to get a hearing aid fitted privately. It took a little time to adjust to the aid because I really had forgotten what certain noises sounded like. However with the aid I can now pick up speech and cope with the phone.

"I was so pleased with the aid that I got fitted with a second one six years ago. They really have made a big difference to my life. Without them I wouldn't be at work and I would need a text phone.

"Losing your hearing does knock your confidence and you do feel up against the hearing world but having the aids has really helped with all this. I am now aware when my children are talking to me from another room and they have seen a big difference in me."

Janet's story isn't unique. Millions of people suffer in silence from a hearing loss unaware of the benefits of being fitted with hearing aids. If only more people admitted their hearing loss and sought help then they too could enjoy a better quality of life like Janet.