Simon Jones: Sound the silent alarm

According to new data from Specsavers citing Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) statistics, there’s a £25bn productivity gap in the economy caused by failure to address hearing loss, either through geographical lack of access, or the fear of speaking up to employers.  

The multiple’s survey found 84% of people said clear hearing was critical to their job, yet 64% admitted to never having a hearing check. The disconnect here is frightening and you start to appreciate how the estimated £25bn shortfall could be amassed. Wasted time, mistakes, and the general inability to do their job properly all have a detrimental effect on people in the workplace.