If you are deaf or hard of hearing, then Action on Hearing Loss, formally RNID, want your help.

They are looking for people with a hearing loss to join a new research panel they are developing. Panel members will help shape the charity’s policies, services and influence which campaigns they focus on.

In addition to a survey they regularly conduct with their members, Action on Hearing Loss carry out research projects that aim to look at the experiences and issues facing people who are deaf or have a hearing loss. This work allows them to better serve their members and all people affected with hearing problems throughout theUK.

The new research panel Action on Hearing Loss are setting up will allow them to better focus their work and focus their aims accordingly.

Panel members will take part in research activities on a regular basis, which may include completing surveys, one to one interviews and taking part in focus groups.

If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and keen to get your views across, Action on Hearing Loss want to hear from you. If you or anyone you know is interested in joining the panel, just fill out this short questionnaire.

The last blog in our series of Top Tips for getting the most out of your hearing aids covers some of the common problems you might experience, and how you can solve them.

“My hearing aids aren’t working.”

• Check that the battery is fitted correctly

• Check whether you need a new battery

• Check that the hearing aid is clean and clear of wax deposits

“Everything sounds muffled.”

• Clean your hearing aid thoroughly using the equipment provided

• Check for build up of wax on any part of the hearing aid, especially where the sound comes out

• Your hearing levels may have changed since your last check-up

“The hearing aid keeps whistling.”

• It is quite common for your hearing aids to whistle if they are turned on, but not fitted into your ear. Whistling from a hearing aid during insertion or removal from the ear is quite normal if the hearing aid is switched on

• Check that your hearing aid is correctly inserted into your ear – it may be poorly fitted

• Clean your hearing aid thoroughly using the equipment provided

• “Feedback” is sometimes caused when the volume control is adjusted and your hand reflects the sound back into the instrument’s microphone. This should stop when you move your hand

If you have any other hearing aid problems, or want any more tips as to how to get the best out of your hearing aids, why not get in touch with us using the comments section.