A CHARITY that helps people with hearing difficulties has received the full support of one of Swindon’s MPs.

North Swindon’s Justin Tomlinson attended a drop-in event in Westminster organised by Action on Hearing Loss to get his hearing screened as part of the charity’s campaign to encourage more people to do the same.

The former minister for disabled people is backing the campaign, which encourages people to address their hearing loss by accessing the help available.

Mr Tomlinson said: “It’s been great to find out more about Action on Hearing Loss’ work supporting people with deafness, tinnitus and hearing loss and to find out just how easy it is to get your hearing screened.

“With 11 million people in the UK living with hearing loss, a number rising as the population ages, it’s more important than ever that people understand the importance of their hearing health.

“I’d encourage all of my constituents who might suspect that they are losing their hearing to follow Action on Hearing Loss’ simple three steps to get their hearing checked.”

Action on Hearing Loss works to enable people to take control of their lives and remove the barriers through support and care, developing technology and treatments, and campaigning for equality.

Paul Breckell, the charity’s chief executive, said: “We want to demonstrate that getting your hearing checked really is as easy as 1, 2, 3. We know that early intervention makes it easier for people to make the most out of hearing aids.”

“We are hugely grateful that Justin came along and demonstrated the importance and ease of getting your hearing checked.”