Delivered by Healthwatch Doncaster, the event created a welcoming and accessible space where people could access expert advice, hands-on support and up-to-date information about local audiology services.
Attendees were able to receive immediate, practical help on the day, including hearing aid battery replacements, minor repairs and checking their position on waiting lists. For many, this meant leaving not just better informed, but with tangible improvements to their quality of life.
One moment in particular captured the significance of the day.
Fran Joel, Chief Executive of Healthwatch Doncaster, shared: “One woman said said, ‘Sorry for interrupting you, but I’d just like to say thank you. It’s been great to hear everything and because I was seen, I got my hearing aid sorted right here and it’s already made a big difference. Thank you so much, it’s been brilliant.’”
She added: “That moment really stayed with me. It shows exactly why days like this matter. Not just for sharing information, but for making immediate, meaningful differences to people’s everyday lives.”
Feedback from attendees echoed this impact, with many highlighting both the accessibility and value of the event:
- “Great event, definitely needed.”
- “Really beneficial to hear the updates and next steps.”
- “I couldn’t believe how easy it was to access battery fittings and repairs after waiting so long.”
A number of people also commented on how well organised and welcoming the day felt, reinforcing the importance of creating spaces where people feel comfortable, informed and supported.
A key highlight of the event was an open and honest panel discussion featuring representatives from Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and local system leaders. Attendees were able to ask questions directly and hear about current developments and future plans for audiology services.
Nick Mallaband, Acting Executive Medical Director at DBTH, said: “The event was a great opportunity to provide practical support on the day while also having meaningful conversations with patients and families. Being able to offer advice, carry out quick fixes, and signpost to further support made a real difference to those who attended.”
The event also brought together a range of local organisations and support groups, helping people connect with ongoing services and community networks beyond the day itself.
Anthony Fitzgerald, Place Director at the Doncaster Integrated Care Board, added: “It was fantastic to see such a large turnout. Hearing directly from patients and their families helps us understand concerns and shape improvements. While progress is being made, we know there is more to do to ensure services are fully accessible and of the quality Doncaster residents deserve.”
Michael Shaw, CEO of Primary Care Doncaster, said: “The Audiology Day was a real success, informative, honest, and grounded in people’s lived experiences. People had a voice and were heard. There have been significant improvements, but all organisations recognise there is more to do. A huge thank you to Healthwatch for continuing to give a voice to the people of Doncaster.”
Following the success of the Audiology Action Day, partners across Doncaster are continuing their commitment to ongoing collaboration through a programme of quarterly audiology meetings, bringing together services, professionals and community voices to drive continued improvement.
The next meeting will take place this Thursday, where partners will come together to agree dates for the year ahead. This will ensure that the conversations, feedback and energy from the Action Day translate into sustained action and accountability.
This marks an important step towards a more connected, responsive and community-led approach to hearing health in Doncaster, where people are not only heard, but continue to shape the services they rely on.
