Santander International’s banking staff have taken extra interest in hearing loss thanks to training from Hidden Hearing.

Expert Audiologist Sophie Oakley and Hearing Care Assistant Suzanne Tucker from Hidden Hearing were invited to the company’s offices on Prospect Hill, Douglas, to help staff understand hearing loss and how they can help affected customers visiting the branch.

The Douglas based team joined Sophie as she explained how the ear works, what prevents it working efficiently, how hearing is tested and how to better communicate with people who have difficulty hearing. Following the training, staff were offered a free hearing test.

The session was part of Santander’s staff scheme which aims to educate staff on wider issues, further improve customer service, enrich the work experience and contribute to employee health and well-being.

Sophie said: “People who suffer from hearing loss can be affected in many ways, from frustration with even the most everyday tasks to more severe difficulties, so it will be a huge benefit for customers visiting the bank knowing that they will be given that extra level of care.

“As part of our Wellness Programme we are promoting the importance of looking after your hearing and getting regular check-ups, like you would with your eyes, so it was lovely to be invited in to Santander International to remind the staff.”

Lynne Corlett, HR Manager at Santander International, added: “Hearing is something we all take for granted until it is compromised or lost. This has a significant impact on our lives so having Sophie come in to help the team understand how they can better serve our customers as well as impressing upon them the importance of looking after their own hearing was really useful. I would recommend that all businesses take advantage of Hidden Hearing’s Wellness Programme.”

Hidden Hearing operates from clinics in Douglas, Ramsey and Castletown, giving local residents the convenience, knowledge and welcome of a local business as well as the expertise and experience of a large company with multiple branches around the UK.

To arrange a free hearing test in one of the clinics or at home, or to request Hidden Hearing visit your organisation please contact Hidden Hearing on 617683.

Photo - Staff from Santander International with Sophie and Suzanne from Hidden Hearing.