If you’ve recently upgraded your hearing devices or you’ve sadly lost a loved one who wore hearing aids, you might be wondering how you can use unwanted devices to make a difference. In a world where we’re all trying to do our bit to reduce waste, we’re delighted that there are ways to minimise the environmental impact of discarding hearing aids.
- Collection points – collection points for unwanted hearing devices can often be found at doctors’ surgeries, audiology departments in hospitals and some charities and charity shops.
- The NHS – if you have an unused hearing device originally provided from the NHS, then the NHS will be able to take this back for you. If it is a newer model, it will likely be refurbished so that another patient can make use of it.
- Charities – charitable organisations such as the Rotary Club and the Lions Club collect hearing aids which are then redeveloped and sent overseas. The Lions Club collect thousands of hearing devices each year. You can find information on how to donate your hearing device here: https://lionsclubs.co/Public/. It’s also worth speaking with charities local to you, to see if they are able to take your hearing aids.
Another item that you may want to recycle is your hearing aid batteries. You should contact your local recycling centre to find out the best way to donate your unused hearing aid batteries.
What not to do:
It’s worth noting that recycling centres do not accept hearing aids
Hearing aids and their batteries should not be put in household waste
If your hearing aid was an NHS hearing aid, please make sure it is returned to the audiology department of your local hospital, as this is still an NHS device.
If your hearing devices are due an upgrade, or you could benefit from an Ear Health Assessment, get in touch with our team of expert audiologists.
