David has worked as a certified educational assistant for a school district for 20 years. His job has him in constant communication with both students and staff, and working out of an office space that’s often busy with students, it can be particularly difficult for him to hear.
“[I have] nerve damage in both ears. My struggle for the past couple of years has been able to hear clearly when someone is trying to speak to me, either in-person or over the phone. I have been constantly asking for them to repeat what they are saying,” he shares. “The other thing was I was not picking up on certain tones and having to have them repeat or even write down what it is. It has been very frustrating.”
His audiologist referred him to WorkBC Assistive Technology Services for help getting the hearing aids he needs for work. “The program was awesome in helping me fund the hearing aids I needed,” he explains.
The new hearing aids have made David’s job much easier. “[It’s] so much easier communicating with students and staff,” he says. “I can hear clearly when people speak to me and if I cannot make it out the first time I will pick up on the second time. I am not constantly asking to have the conversation repeated.”
David says he recommends WorkBC Assistive Technology Services to others in need, noting that he’s already spread word about the program to people he knows.
“All I would like to say is how appreciative I am that this service is available. And a thank you for the support.”
WorkBC Assistive Technology Services is operated by Neil Squire. Assistive Technology Services are available to individuals who have a work-related barrier due to a disability or a functional limitation. This may include barriers related to traveling to and from the workplace.
Questions about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services? Need help applying? Contact us: 1-844-453-5506 or info-ats@workbc.ca
Please visit www.workbc-ats.ca (new window) for more information about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services.
