Military Hearing Loss: How to Know if You Have a Claim
Hearing loss is one of the most common long-term health issues experienced by British veterans, particularly those who served before 1987. For many, it starts gradually — a persistent ringing, difficulty following conversations, or needing the TV louder than before. But for others, it’s more immediate. A permanent ringing after a single loud blast. Muffled hearing after months or years of exposure to heavy weaponry, engines, or aircraft.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Thousands of ex-service personnel are now discovering that their hearing problems are likely linked to their time in uniform. And many are still unaware that they could have the right to pursue a claim.
This blog will help you understand the key signs, service conditions, and timeframes involved in military hearing loss — and what steps to take if you believe your hearing damage may be service-related.
The Hidden Legacy of Service
For decades, soldiers, sailors, and airmen were expected to endure tough conditions without question. In many cases, that included intense, repeated exposure to extreme noise — from firing ranges and aircraft carriers to tank engines and explosive training exercises.
Before the late 1980s, protective equipment like ear defenders were rarely provided. Health and safety standards were a far cry from what they are today. Veterans were often told to “just get on with it,” even when reporting symptoms like ringing in the ears or temporary deafness.
Unfortunately, what many assumed was a short-term inconvenience has turned out to be permanent damage.
Conditions like:
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Tinnitus (ringing, buzzing or whistling in the ears)
Partial or complete hearing loss in one or both ears
can all be linked to service, and may qualify for compensation under civil routes — even if you were told you were ineligible in the past.
Am I Affected?
Many veterans don’t immediately connect their hearing problems with their time in the Forces. That’s understandable — hearing loss can worsen slowly over time, and other health conditions may distract from it. But if you served before 1987 and now struggle with:
Understanding conversations, especially in noisy environments
Ringing or buzzing in your ears that won’t go away
Needing people to repeat themselves more often
Difficulty hearing on the phone or watching TV
Feelings of isolation, anxiety or frustration linked to hearing loss
...then it may be time to take a closer look at whether your condition is military-related.
Even if you now wear hearing aids or have had NHS support, that doesn’t mean a civil claim is out of the question. Many veterans are surprised to learn that they may still have legal options to pursue financial redress.
Key Risk Areas from Military Service
While anyone in the Forces could be at risk, certain roles and postings had particularly high noise exposure. If you served in any of the following environments, your hearing damage may be more easily linked to your military duties:
Artillery, Infantry, or Armour Units: Exposure to gunfire, mortars, tanks, and heavy equipment
Naval Engineers or Ship Crew: Working in engine rooms, boiler rooms, or flight decks
RAF Ground Crew or Pilots: Jet engines, helicopter rotors, or noisy hangar operations
Vehicle Technicians and Mechanics: Prolonged time near loud machinery without ear protection
Combat and Live Fire Exercises: Regular drills using blanks or live rounds
Training Instructors: Long-term repeated exposure to simulated combat or heavy weapons
If you were stationed in any of these roles and weren’t given proper hearing protection, you may have a strong basis for a claim.
“I Thought It Was Just Old Age”
Many veterans blame their hearing problems on ageing, not realising just how much their time in the Forces contributed. But there’s a difference between normal age-related decline and preventable hearing damage caused by military conditions.
Tinnitus, in particular, is not a natural part of ageing. It is a known symptom of acoustic trauma — and it can be debilitating. Veterans describe it as a constant screech, hum, or hiss in the background of their lives. It can disrupt sleep, affect concentration, and cause emotional distress. And yet, because it’s invisible, it is often minimised or ignored.
At Justice4Heroes, we work to ensure that veterans understand their symptoms are real, valid, and worthy of investigation. You don’t have to suffer in silence.
What About the Cut-Off Dates?
Many veterans believe that because they served before 1987, they are unable to pursue any form of claim. While it is true that the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme only applies to service from 6 April 2005 (and the War Pension Scheme for earlier injuries), civil claims are still possible in many cases.
If you were discharged before 1987, you may still be able to pursue a civil claim for damages through a solicitor — particularly if your hearing damage was caused by negligence (such as lack of hearing protection or failure to monitor noise exposure).
Each case is different, and there are time limits involved. But in some situations, the time limit only begins once you become aware that your hearing loss may be linked to your military service. This is known as the "date of knowledge", and it opens up the door to claims even decades later.
If you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, the best step is to speak with a specialist — and we can help with that.
What Evidence Do I Need?
You don’t need to have kept your service records or medical files to begin a conversation about your claim. A solicitor specialising in military hearing cases can often:
Request service and medical records on your behalf
Arrange for an up-to-date hearing test or audiogram
Gather testimony from witnesses or other veterans in similar roles
Use evidence from previous cases involving the same conditions or units
The key is to start the process — even if you feel unsure. We’ve spoken with many veterans who waited years, thinking they didn’t have enough proof, only to find that they had a valid claim all along.
The Emotional Impact of Hearing Loss
This isn’t just about ears. Hearing loss affects communication, relationships, confidence, and mental health. Veterans with untreated hearing damage often report:
Avoiding social situations due to embarrassment or frustration
Arguments with partners or family members over communication difficulties
Depression or anxiety linked to feelings of isolation
Reduced job opportunities or difficulties in civilian employment
And yet, many feel guilty for speaking up — as though they are complaining, or that their suffering doesn’t matter compared to others.
At Justice4Heroes, we want every veteran to know: your service mattered. Your suffering matters. And you are not alone.
The Claims Process: What to Expect
If you choose to explore a civil claim for hearing loss, here’s a rough outline of what usually happens:
Initial Enquiry – You provide basic details about your service and symptoms (this can often be done over the phone or online)
Eligibility Review – A solicitor will assess your case and determine whether it has legal merit
Gathering Evidence – If you proceed, they’ll request relevant documents, book hearing assessments, and compile supporting information
Submitting the Claim – Your solicitor will contact the Ministry of Defence (MoD) or relevant insurer with the formal claim
Negotiation or Court – Most claims are settled without court, but some may proceed to a hearing if needed
Compensation Outcome – If successful, you may receive financial compensation that reflects the impact of your hearing loss on your life, work, and wellbeing
The process can take time, but many veterans find it brings peace of mind, closure, and practical support.
Justice4Heroes Is Here to Support You
We understand how complex and emotional this topic can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping veterans explore their options with compassion, clarity, and confidence.
We work with trusted, regulated solicitors who specialise in military hearing loss cases. There’s no obligation and no cost for an initial enquiry. Even if you’re unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to reach out.
You served your country. Let us serve you.
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you love served before 1987 and now lives with hearing loss or tinnitus, please don’t assume it’s too late.
Visit www.justice4heroes.org to find out if you may have a claim or to speak confidentially with a specialist
Sign the petition to support all pre-1987 veterans affected by hearing damage at
https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/715800
It’s time their voices were heard.
