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Military hearing loss claims: A guide for veterans
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Noise-induced hearing loss can occur as a result of military service. Gunfire, exploding bombs and jet engines all create high levels of noise, which can mean armed services personnel are exposed both in training and in the field. If you’re a veteran suffering from hearing damage or tinnitus, help is available. Armed forces hearing loss support and military noise exposure claims can improve your quality life after serving your country.
What leads to military hearing loss?
Noise exposure in combat zones may only last a short time but can affect military personnel for the rest of their lives. Single sounds like a gunshot or explosion can lead to soldiers suffering hearing loss, especially when not wearing any hearing protection.
In other situations, long-term subjection to high volumes is another type of exposure to noise in the military. Despite not being a specific incident you can point to, the impact can be the same or similar and nobody should have to live with the consequences unsupported.
Who can file a claim?
Veterans hearing loss compensation is available for anyone who has served in the Army, RAF, Navy, special forces or the reserves and suffered hearing damage or tinnitus as a result. Look out for signs like mishearing words in a conversation or being unable to hear when there’s noise in the background.
Hearing loss claims must be made within seven years of discharge from military service and you’ll need to complete the AFCS/WPS001 claim form. This should be submitted to Veterans UK, along with your supporting evidence, which may include:
How to file a military hearing loss claim
Noise-induced hearing loss claims should be submitted to the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS), which is a specialist military programme. Along with the information you’ve provided, your claim will be processed with additional data from the Ministry of Defence and other sources in order to gain the fullest picture of the situation.
Sometimes, a medical exam will be required as part of the military hearing loss claims process and a doctor will be appointed to carry it out. Once your claim for compensation has been submitted, it will be reviewed and you’ll receive a letter containing the decision and information on how it was made.
The two main types of AFCS awards are:
Resources and support for veterans
More information on military hearing loss claims, help and support can be found here:
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