People in Edgware suffering from hearing loss can now get NHS hearing aids on their high street for the first time.

Specsavers hearing centre in the Broadwalk Shopping Centre can offers patients NHS hearing aids and aftercare free of charge as part of a Government scheme.

Patients can be referred by their GP directly to the Specsavers shop, rather than having to book an appointment at a hospital.

Hearing director at Specsavers Hearing Centre in Edgware Broadwalk Paul McNamara said: “Being awarded the NHS contract means we can now pass on the many benefits this brings to our local community, which is pioneering.

"One in six people currently suffer in silence from hearing loss but, by making the service more accessible on behalf of the NHS, we can help to remove the stress and worry associated with the condition

"People over the age of 55 in the Edgware Broadwalk area will have greater choice; they will be able to visit their local high street and enjoy a service more suited to individual needs.”

The accreditation comes as part of the Government’s Any Qualified Provider (AQP) scheme introduced in April last year.

The AQP scheme means, for some non-emergency conditions such as hearing loss, patients are able to choose whether their GP refers them to a hospital or another provider who is approved to offer those services, such as a shop or voluntary organisation.