BAA Statement on NHS Lothian Paediatric Audiology Review
The British Academy of Audiology is deeply saddened by the findings of the NHS Lothian Paediatric Audiology Review. The report into Paediatric Audiology at the Lothian Health Board is both distressing and concerning for the children and families affected and the professionals involved in hearing care.
The profession we represent has a main aim of improving the quality of life for those with hearing difficulty. This has not happened for those children and families highlighted in the review. The lifelong impact that undiagnosed and untreated hearing loss has on individuals and families cannot be underestimated.
Families in the Lothian area who may have concerns are encouraged to contact the NHS Lothian helpline for information on 0131 465 5457. Lines will be open on Monday to Friday from 9am to 4pm.
The National Deaf Children’s Society also have a helpline available. They can be contacted on 0808 800 8880.
The BAA will be supporting NHS Lothian in the implementation of all recommendations from the review. We will also work alongside NHS Lothian to support them to restore the quality and confidence in the services they offer.
As the main professional body for audiologists in the NHS, the BAA will actively work to ensure lessons learned are widely understood across the profession and any requirements to support other services are acted upon promptly.
More detailed information from BAA can be found here:
BAA briefing for members on NHS Lothian report
NHS Lothian Statement and Reports are here:
NHS Lothian Press Release
BAA Summary Report_NHS Lothian Paediatric Audiology
BAA Audit Report_NHS Lothian Paediatric Audiology
BAA Governance Report_NHS Lothian Paediatric Audiology
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Notes to Editors:
- The BAA was commissioned to undertake an independent clinical audit and governance review of the services at Lothian NHS Paediatric Audiology, in response to the recommendations of the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman report, published in May 2021.
- The British Academy of Audiology is the largest association of professionals in hearing and balance in the UK. Our membership extends internationally and provides services in both the public and private sector.
- On behalf of its membership, BAA’s vision is to provide a clear and strong voice for professionals in audiology and to promote excellence in clinical knowledge and practice.
- The BAA aims to help its members to develop in their professional skills, provide a benchmark for quality and professional standards and promote audiology as an autonomous profession.
- The BAA is a professional body for hearing and balance professionals. We are not a regulatory body, responsible for registration, or members being fit to practice. Whilst Hearing Aid Dispensers and Clinical Scientists are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), audiologists working within the NHS are not legally required to register. However, many do register voluntarily with the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists (RCCP) or the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS).