South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust has transformed the existing department, creating modern clinical spaces and expanding the range of services available.
The upgrade means many families who previously travelled to Sunderland for specialist appointments can now access high‑quality care closer to home.
The purpose-built department, delivered through investment from NHS England, features modern clinical spaces designed to meet growing demand. STS Charity, the dedicated charity of STSFT, has played a key role by contributing £323,000 towards the project.
This includes clinical audiometers which are used to diagnose hearing loss, as well as screening tools and other diagnostic systems. The Charity has funded 36 pieces of equipment to support patients and improve access to care.
The new facilities have allowed the introduction of several services in South Tyneside for the first time, including:
- An Audiology-led vestibular (dizziness) rehabilitation service
- Specialist audiology support for adults with learning disabilities and dementia
- A dedicated, fit-for-purpose paediatric audiology service for babies, children and young people
Lynzee McShea, Head of Audiology at STSFT, said: “We’re really pleased to have our new Audiology department open in South Tyneside. It means we can offer a high-quality service closer to home, with improved access for patients, in a modern, purpose-built space. A huge amount of work has gone into making it happen, and I’m incredibly grateful to all who have supported us.
“We’ve really enjoyed welcoming patients into the new department and the feedback from them has been fantastic. This new centre is not just about the building – it’s about creating a better experience for our patients, carers and their families, and supporting our staff to deliver the best possible care.”
The new department has been designed to meet growing demand while aligning with wider NHS 10 Year Plan priorities, including improving access to community-based care and supporting long-term health outcomes.
Nichola Taylor, Head of STS Charity, said: “We are incredibly proud to have supported the development of the new audiology department in South Tyneside. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, this significant investment in equipment will make a real difference to patients of all ages. It means more people can access essential hearing services closer to home, in a modern environment, with the very best technology available.”
The opening of the new clinic marks a significant step forward for audiology services in the area, improving patient experience and ensuring families can access the care they need in a local, welcoming setting.
