Hearpeers, the peer support network for individuals with hearing implants, is celebrating a major milestone during UK Volunteer Week. Founded in 2015, Hearpeers has grown into an international community of nearly 200 volunteer Mentors across 34 countries, providing support and guidance to those on their hearing journey.
The concept of Hearpeers is simple yet powerful: individuals with personal experience of hearing loss are uniquely equipped to support others facing similar challenges. Whether they are hearing implant users, partners, or parents of children with implants, Hearpeers Mentors offer one-to-one, non-medical support by sharing their own stories, answering questions, and providing reassurance and encouragement.
One of the UK cochlear implant users and Hearpeers Mentor, Gavin, shares his experience and encourages others to seek support from those who have been through the process. “I highly recommend that those considering a hearing implant speak to other people who have been through the process and ask as many questions as they like because that is the best way to learn what the experience would be like.”
What initially began as a small group of volunteers in the UK has now become a trusted global resource for individuals and families navigating hearing loss. With 1 in 3 adults in the UK affected by deafness, hearing loss, or tinnitus as reported by RNID, the need for accessible and empathetic peer support is greater than ever.
Hearpeers provides a safe and welcoming space for individuals to connect with someone who truly understands their experience. This peer-to-peer support is a valuable complement to professional hearing care, as Mentors offer insights and emotional support that can enhance patient care and decision-making.
As Hearpeers celebrates its 10th anniversary during UK Volunteer Week (2-8 June 2025), it acknowledges the valuable contributions of its Mentors, who continue to change lives one conversation at a time. The network continues to grow, with more Mentors joining from across the UK and Ireland, each one dedicated to supporting, inspiring, and empowering others.
To learn more about Hearpeers, connect with a Mentor, or explore upcoming webinars, visit hearpeers.medel.com/en_gb.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.