Sheffield, UK- This year marks a significant milestone for Hearpeers as it celebrates its 10th anniversary during UK Volunteer Week. Launched in the UK in 2015, Hearpeers has grown into a global community of nearly 200 volunteer Mentors across 34 countries, dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey to hearing.
At its core, Hearpeers is founded on the powerful idea that individuals with lived experience of hearing loss are uniquely positioned to support others facing similar challenges. Whether they are hearing implant or device users, partners, or parents of children with hearing implants, Hearpeers Mentors offer one-to-one, non-medical support by sharing their personal stories, answering questions, and providing reassurance and encouragement.
“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,” shares Gavin, a UK cochlear implant user and Hearpeers Mentor.
What began as a small group of volunteers in the UK has now become a trusted international resource for those 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 has never been greater.
Hearpeers offers a safe and welcoming space for individuals and families to connect with someone who truly understands what they are going through, as they have been there too.
In addition to professional hearing care, Hearpeers Mentors offer valuable insights and support from their personal experiences. This peer-to-peer support has been embraced by professionals as a trusted resource to enhance patient care and decision-making.
As Hearpeers celebrates its 10th anniversary during UK Volunteer Week (2-8 June 2025), it recognizes the incredible 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, all committed to supporting, inspiring, and empowering others.
To learn more about Hearpeers, connect with a Mentor, or explore upcoming webinars, please visit hearpeers.medel.com/en_gb.