Help Freya to Hear

Hi, it’s Freya

I’ve recently been diagnosed with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), alongside an earlier diagnosis of ADHD. This means my brain struggles to process sounds—especially in noisy environments like classrooms—which makes learning and socialising much more difficult.

After waiting 2.5 years for an NHS appointment at UCLH, I was assessed and told I would benefit from low-gain hearing aids and an FM system (a microphone worn by my teacher that streams their voice directly to the hearing aids). Unfortunately, because I’m close to turning 18, I was discharged and moved onto the adult NHS waiting list. We were also told these devices aren’t funded by the NHS, so the only option is to go private—at a cost of £3,275.

Time is of the essence, as I’m about to begin my final year of sixth form and really want to give myself the best chance to reach my full potential. Right now, I often miss key parts of lessons because I can’t process what’s being said—especially with background noise. These devices would make a huge difference—not just academically, but socially too. The hearing aids use AI to reduce background noise and can even stream my friends’ voices directly to me, which I hope will help me feel more included and confident (I’m a bit of a hermit at the moment).

Even visiting universities has been overwhelming—there’s so much happening that I struggle to follow conversations about courses or student life. Having this support would make a real difference as I prepare for these important next steps.

Any funds raised will go directly towards the cost of the hearing aids and FM microphone system. Every contribution—no matter how small—would mean the world and help me start Year 13 with more confidence, independence, and the tools I need to succeed and get to university.

Here is a YouTube link to further explain the device:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G8DnBhSUTlo

Thank you so much for reading and supporting

— Freya