We have had several enquiries asking when our services are likely to recommence. We appreciate that the re-opening of shops, bars, and restaurants etc raises expectations about other services and facilities, so we want to provide an update on our services.
Obviously, we are operating within Scottish Government rules regarding timing and the measures we will need to put in place to ensure the safety of volunteers and service users. Given that a lot of people who use our services may be vulnerable we are approaching re-opening very cautiously.
Once we are confident about having safe practices in place and sufficient available volunteers, we expect to start home visiting around September/ October (subject to confirmation at that time that it’s appropriate to do so). This service will be for priority service users who are unable to maintain their own hearing aids and will be subject to a triage approach.
We are also working towards re-opening some of our drop-in sessions on a limited basis around October/ November (again subject to confirmation at that time). We will initially operate from a smaller number of locations until we are confident about expanding. Part of the reason for this is that some of our volunteers may still be shielding or are not available due to their level of vulnerability.
We are also reviewing the premises we have been using as some will not be suitable for how we need to operate safely. We will not be using NHS premises as we respect their priority is the safety of their patients. We also need to have premises which will allow social distancing whilst waiting, combined with confidentiality for our service users. We are working towards securing appropriate venues which we will advertise in due course along with dates and times.
The Audiology department is beginning to see patients again, however, this will be done with caution, care and at a limited rate. They are still happy to send out spare wires, dome, tubes and batteries to anyone who needs them, so please call them on 01387 241499 or email them at dumf-uhb.audiologydgri@nhs.net and they will post them out to you.
If anyone needs any help or guidance in regards to cleaning or maintaining their own hearing aids, please feel free to contact us on 07896342878 or at infodghhg@gmail.com and our Service Coordinator will only be too happy to help.
If you are unable to maintain your own hearing aids, or if you feel that they’re not working properly, you can still post them to the Audiology department at Mountainhall Treatment Centre, Bankend Road, Dumfries DG1 4AP. Please remember to include a note detailing the issue, along with your name, address, and date of birth.
Your patience is very much appreciated at this time.
