meriad wrote:I am quite curious though as I really don't know much about it; so hope you don't mind my asking: I always thought the loop system was generally used in places that had a counter where the staff behind the counter were separated from the clients by a glass pane (ie banks, post office etc) and you had to somehow plug into something or connect somehow? How does it work in 'regular' shops such as Holland and Barrett where you are actually quite close to the person you're speaking to.
I don't mind you asking at all Ria
The problem in shops and public places is the amount of background noise. The main problem with a lot of people with hearing loss is not that we can't hear anything, but we can not separate the sounds we want to hear from background noise. It all becomes a jumble of sound and it is really, really hard trying to pick out one voice from all the others. It is true that in a quiet shop I can cope well, but anyone else speaking in the background, or if the assistant turns their back, covers their mouth, mumbles etc, I can't hear them. If there is a loop installed in the counter and I switch my T button on the aid, the background noise becomes much quieter and the person behind the counter is much, much clearer.
Staff need to trained, the loop needs to be checked, audiology depts. and hearing aid providers need to understand the importance of loops and users like me need to complain and praise when needed.
Most places do have loop systems, but often they are not working or the staff on't know how to use them. I have contacted Debenhams and the manager got back to me. He has now got his working and has put a sign on the main door. Marks and Spencer say they have checked theirs. Holland and Barratt are hopefully installing one, so that's good. Tesco are making excuses, but I'm on their case 
and nothing in audiology!!!
Bless 
