Chapel-en-le-Frith optician provides NHS service

Rayner & Ridgewell Opticians, on Market Street, is now offering free hearing checks and NHS hearing aids to the over-55s after becoming part of the Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care business.

The branch is accredited by the local Clinical Commissioning Group to deliver NHS hearing assessments on its behalf, including the hearing test, fitting and supply of digital hearing aids, batteries and aftercare, all free of charge to the patient.

Branch manager Teresa Beresford said: “Traditionally NHS hearing aids have only been available from hospitals, but we are delighted to be working with the local CCG to offer this free service on the high street alongside NHS eye care, all under one roof.

“It will improve care locally and offer more choice with appointments to suit patients’ lifestyles.

To qualify for free NHS hearing care patients need to be referred by a GP. Once referred, a hearing aid audiologist will carry out a comprehensive hearing assessment. The NHS service also includes aftercare free of charge for three years.