At Hearco, we believe that hearing care is about more than just technology—it’s about understanding the person behind the hearing loss. Recently, we had the privilege of working with Mr. Oliver St John, a veteran whose journey highlights the life-changing impact of combining specialist care with charitable support.

Working in partnership with the UK Veterans Hearing Foundation, we were able to fit Oliver with a hearing solution tailored specifically to his needs, helping him reconnect with the world around him.

The Cost of Service

Like many who have served, Oliver’s hearing loss didn't happen overnight. It was the result of years of dedication to his country. During his time in the Army, including deployment on Operation Telic, he was exposed to extreme noise levels from large guns, thunder flashes, and live firing ranges—often without adequate hearing protection.

While the focus at the time was on the mission, the long-term effects eventually made themselves known. Years later, Oliver found himself battling persistent hearing difficulties and tinnitus—a constant internal noise he described as "really annoying." Daily life became a series of small struggles: straining to follow conversations in meetings, withdrawing from social groups, and relying on subtitles just to watch television.

A Partnership for Better Hearing

Veterans often face complex auditory challenges that standard healthcare pathways struggle to address fully. This is where our collaboration with the UK Veterans Hearing Foundation became vital. Through their support, and with funding provided by the Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust, Oliver was able to access the private, specialist care he needed at our Sussex clinic.

The Hearco Approach

When Oliver came to Hearco, we knew that a "one-size-fits-all" device wouldn't work. We took the time to understand his history, his specific noise exposure, and the lifestyle he wanted to regain.

We fitted Oliver with top-of-the-range Phonak hearing aids, selected specifically for their ability to process sound in complex environments and manage tinnitus. But the device was just the beginning. Our team provided careful fine-tuning and verification to ensure the aids didn't just amplify sound, but actually clarified speech and reduced the listening fatigue that had been weighing him down.

The Result: More Than Just Sound

The difference has been profound. For Oliver, the fitting wasn't just about hearing louder; it was about living easier.

• Conversations are no longer exhausting tasks.

• Television is enjoyable again, rather than a challenge.

• Confidence has returned in social situations where he previously might have withdrawn.

As Oliver’s story shows, the right intervention does more than restore hearing—it restores independence.

Supporting Our Veterans

We are incredibly proud to support the UK Veterans Hearing Foundation in their mission to ensure no veteran is left struggling with hearing loss due to cost or access barriers.

If you or a loved one has served in the Armed Forces and is experiencing hearing difficulties, please don't suffer in silence. There are specialist pathways and technologies available that can make a world of difference.

BOOK NOW: Contact Hearco Today to Discuss Your Hearing Needs by booking online, or calling: 01273 032832