A former police officer who had to retire after developing hearing loss is using his experience to help others.

Jon McCarthy, Managing Director and Hearing Care Specialist, has opened Valley Hearing at 26 Cardiff Road, Caerphilly.

Here he explains why he wanted to help others with their hearing.

“I was born in Cardiff and now live in Pengam just north of Caerphilly. I have been a hearing care professional for five years. I have had a hearing loss from my early thirties and also suffer from tinnitus, I wear hearing aids so I really do know what living with hearing loss is like. I’ve been on the journey through denial, accepting my loss, seeking help and then doing something about it.

“I started off life as a primary school teacher before having a change of heart and joining the police service. After 17 years in the force I was medically retired after developing my hearing loss.

“I went back to university and completed my foundation degree in audiology. I am registered with the Health Care Professions Council and I am a member of British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists.

“I set up Valley Hearing as I wanted to bring an honest relaxed approached to private hearing care, one that isn’t based on sales targets.

“People who have a hearing loss are vulnerable and have a hidden disability so I need to ensure I provide them with all the support I can and the best service to help improve their lives. I also specialise in clinical ear care and have been trained in ear wax removal using microsuction technology.

“With GP surgeries now struggling to offer this service it has become an increasing part of my daily business. I love providing this service as it can provide an instant improvement to your hearing.

“Hearing is precious and we need to do all we can to look after our hearing.

“Caerphilly is a fantastic beautiful place and I feel really fortunate to have the opportunity in these challenging times to set up my new business to support the local community with all their hearing needs. I will be providing lots of information about hearing related issues both here, on my website and via social media over the coming months.”

• For more information visit ValleyHearing.co.uk or call Jon on 07824043395.