Ear wax removal and hearing aids in Norwich
Ears feeling blocked, or finding it harder to keep up with conversations? Norwich is unusual because a local charity, Hear for Norfolk, provides much of the area's ear wax and NHS-funded hearing care. This guide explains how it works, alongside private options and home visits.
Quick answer: For blocked ears, use oil drops first, then contact Hear for Norfolk (01603 404440), which runs aural care clinics and mobile clinics, or book a private clinic (typically £50–£100). For age-related hearing loss over 50, Hear for Norfolk provides NHS-funded hearing tests and hearing aids.
Find ear wax removal or a hearing test near you
Ear wax removal in Norwich
Try oil drops first
The NHS advises 2 to 3 drops of olive or almond oil, 3 to 4 times a day, for 3 to 5 days. Don't use cotton buds, and don't use drops if you have a hole in your eardrum.
Hear for Norfolk aural care clinics
Hear for Norfolk (the Norfolk Deaf Association) runs aural care clinics at community locations and mobile clinics, by appointment only. Staff take a medical history and examine your ears before removing wax by microsuction or manual removal. The mobile service helps people in rural Norfolk who find it hard to travel.
- Phone: 01603 404440
- Address: 14 Meridian Way, Meridian Business Park, Norwich NR7 0TA
For more complex cases, some GP practices can refer patients to a local NHS microsuction service covering Norwich and the rest of Norfolk. Ask your practice whether this applies to you.
Private ear wax removal
Private ear clinics, pharmacies and audiologists in Norwich offer microsuction and irrigation, typically for £50–£100. Home visits are available across Norwich and Norfolk.
See a doctor instead if you have sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge, bleeding or dizziness. Contact your GP or NHS 111.
Hearing tests and hearing aids in Norwich
The NHS route
Norwich has more than one NHS route:
- Hear for Norfolk offers an NHS-funded hearing test and hearing aid fitting service for people aged 50+ with age-related hearing loss. It accepts GP referrals and patient self-referrals, and it also offers private hearing assessments and hearing aids.
- The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) audiology department focuses on complex hearing losses, such as conductive or severe hearing loss and other unusual cases, usually referred by a GP or specialist.
- Other NHS-contracted providers in Norfolk also offer free NHS hearing tests. Ask your GP which options cover your area.
Private hearing care
High-street chains and independent audiologists in Norwich offer hearing tests, often free, and private hearing aids, typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair.
| NHS (incl. Hear for Norfolk) | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Typically £1,000–£4,000+ a pair |
| Who it's for | Adults 50+ with age-related loss (community service); complex cases at NNUH | Anyone |
| How to start | GP referral or self-referral | Book directly |
| Choice | NHS digital range | Wider range, including rechargeable and nearly invisible styles |
Help for older people and families in Norwich
- Hear for Norfolk also runs audiology aftercare sessions for the hearing aids it issues, and gives advice on equipment for the home.
- Alerts at home: visual and vibrating doorbell, phone and smoke alarms.
- If stairs are also becoming difficult, see our guide to stairlifts in Norfolk.
Areas we cover around Norwich
Norwich and nearby, including Eaton, Thorpe St Andrew, Sprowston, Hellesdon, Costessey, Taverham, Drayton and Old Catton, plus Wymondham, Poringland and Aylsham.
Find ear wax removal or a hearing test in Norwich
How we work
UK Mobility Stairlifts provides free, independent guides to help older people stay safe and independent at home. See our Affiliate Disclosure.
Please note: This is a general guide, not medical advice. Services, eligibility and prices change, so check with Hear for Norfolk, your GP practice or the provider before booking.