Does Rochdale's MP listen well enough to his Constituents?

4.40.37pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 28th Sep 2005

One accusation often levelled at politicians is that they don't listen enough to their Constituents. Rochdale's MP - Paul Rowen took time out of his schedule to make sure his hearing was in tip top condition. Paul, the Lib Dem MP for Rochdale decided to get his hearing tested by the Royal National Institute for the Deaf, the charity represents the 9 million deaf and hard of hearing people in the UK. Paul has voiced his support for the charity that focuses on the support to ensure that those with a disability and older workers receive the help they need to remain in the work place.

Paul said, "I took the hearing test to promote the work of this very worthwhile charity - I believe that many people here in Rochdale do not receive the the support they need in their 50's and 60's to keep a job. A hearing test and the provision of a digital hearing aid can help someone with a loss of hearing stay in work. Hearing loss can lead to stress and difficulties in communicating both at home and in work. By getting a hearing test, people will be able to make the necessary adjustments to their lives so that they can lead a full professional and social life."

Paul is encouraging as many people in Rochdale to follow his example and have a hearing test. He said, "I'm glad to report that my test was OK - and I will continue to have regular hearing tests. It is important as MP to listen to the people of Rochdale and act on their behalf."

John Low, Chief Executive of the Royal National Institution for the Deaf said, "A hearing test is a simple and non-intrusive way of finding out whether practical changes can help people become accustomed to hearing loss. Simple solutions such as amplified telephones and loop systems for hearing aid users can make a world of difference to someone with a hearing loss and enable employees to perform at their best."