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Continuing campaigning for a National Hearing Care Plan

We Need a National Hearing Care Plan

Ireland needs a National Hearing Care Plan that ensures people can access timely, comprehensive and person-centred hearing care throughout their lives.

In 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the importance of integrating ear and hearing care into national health plans. The WHO called on governments to make people-centred ear and hearing care accessible to all and to integrate it systematically into national healthcare plans.

We were hopeful when, in August 2024, then Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD established a Working Group to develop a National Hearing Care Plan. The Working Group was tasked with considering current hearing care provision in Ireland and developing recommendations for a holistic model of hearing care. We were promised that a draft National Hearing Care Plan would be completed by the end of Q2 2025. We are still waiting.

We are calling for action on hearing care, including a regular national hearing screening programme for people aged 50 and over. Early identification of hearing loss can help people access appropriate support sooner. 

Unaddressed hearing loss can have a significant impact on people's lives, affecting communication, social participation and overall quality of life. Ensuring people can access hearing care when they need it is an important part of supporting health, wellbeing and inclusion.

Chime has been campaigning for a National Hearing Care Plan for years, and we will continue to call for meaningful action to improve hearing care in Ireland.

Read our National Hearing Care Plan brochure: here

Watch our day at Leinster House: here