Audiologist placing headphones on a patient's head in preparation for a hearing test.

Book a free hearing test

Regular hearing tests are crucial because hearing deterioration can occur gradually. Early detection makes it easier to address any issues. At Leightons, we provide a comprehensive Full Hearing Assessment conducted by our experienced audiologists in a friendly, comfortable setting.

Who is eligible for a free hearing test?

Anyone aged 18 or over can book a free hearing test at Leightons, with no eligibility criteria to meet. Whether you're experiencing hearing difficulties or simply wish to ensure your hearing health is in good shape, you're welcome to schedule a complimentary assessment with us. We also recommend that anyone over the age of 55 take advantage of a free hearing health check.

Unfortunately, we are unable to see children under the age of 18.

Interior of a fully equipped hearing assessment room.

Signs you should have a hearing test

It's important to be aware of changes in your hearing. There are several key signs that you or a loved one may be due a hearing check:

  • Turning up the volume of the TV or music
  • Experiencing tinnitus - a ringing, buzzing or whistling type noise in your ears with no external source
  • Complaining that Feeling like people constantly mumble, asking them to speak up or to repeat themselves
  • Feeling more tired than usual, as your brain is working hard to try to understand speech
  • Avoiding social situations with a lot of background noise

If you think it might be time for a hearing check, why not try our free online hearing test? While it is not a substitute for a full clinical assessment, it can serve as a helpful indicator of whether you would benefit from scheduling a comprehensive hearing test.

Please note that if you experience sudden hearing loss, it is important to contact your GP or a hearing professional as soon as possible.

An audiologist explaining the result of a patient hearing test.

What happens during your hearing test

Should you have a full assessment, your free hearing test includes:

  • A review of your medical history and an opportunity to discuss any changes you may have noticed to your hearing or your day-to-day listening.
  • Video otoscopy of the outer ear, eardrum and canal to check for any blockages, such as earwax.
  • Tympanometry, functionality test of the middle ear to see whether it’s healthy.
  • Pure Tone Audiometry, sounds are presented through headphones, to assess your ability to hear different frequencies at different volumes.
  • Speech testing to review your ability to process words in both quiet and in noise.

At the end of the test, we will discuss the results with you, as well as give you expert advice on preventative or corrective measures as required.

Audiologist preparing a patient for a comprehensive hearing test, adjusting equipment and ensuring a comfortable setup.

Preparing for your hearing test

You do not need to do anything in preparation for your hearing test. However, we suggest that you are accompanied by a family member or close friend for the assessment if possible.

Often, hearing impairment can lead to communication issues that affect not only the person with the impairment but also those closest to them. So, they may be able to offer further insight into your background and lifestyle. They will also make it easier for you to measure the improvement of a familiar voice and provide support for any decision you might make.

Audiologist discussing hearing aids with a patient as a solution for hearing loss.

Book your free hearing test near you

Book online

You can book your free hearing test online at any time through our secure, easy-to-use online booking system.

Book by Phone

Call us on 0800 40 20 20. Lines are open Monday to Saturday, 8:30am to 5:00pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

A free full hearing assessment is usually a 90-minute appointment, to ensure that we can build a comprehensive picture of your hearing health and lifestyle needs.

You should aim to have a hearing test at least once every two years, or at intervals advised by your audiologist. Regular monitoring of your hearing health is important to help identify any gradual changes as soon as possible.

At Leightons, we are only able to see adults aged 18 or over for a hearing test. We are unable to see children and young adults under 18.

If you would like your child’s hearing tested or have concerns about their ear health, we would advise contacting your GP in the first instance. They will be able to carry out a preliminary assessment and then refer you to an ENT clinic or paediatric hearing practitioner if required.

Should hearing loss be identified, your audiologist may recommend hearing aids. Modern hearing aids are nothing like the large beige devices of years gone by - the latest hearing aids are discreet and packed with incredible technology to connect to the world around you.

Leightons offers a wide range of aids from the most trusted brands in the industry, including Oticon, Starkey, Phonak, Widex, ReSound and Unitron. As part of your appointment, your audiologist will be able to recommend solutions that may be suitable for you and demonstrate the ways in which they would support you in your day-to-day life.