Military Hearing Loss: How to Know if You Have a Claim

For many UK veterans, the damage caused by service isn’t always visible. While physical injuries are more easily recognised, hearing loss and tinnitus are often dismissed as a natural part of ageing. But for thousands of ex-service personnel, that gradual loss of sound is a direct result of military service. The problem is, many don’t know they may be entitled to make a claim. 

At Justice4Heroes, we’ve seen first-hand how hearing damage affects not just veterans, but their families, work life, confidence, and overall wellbeing. This blog is here to help you recognise the signs of military-related hearing loss, understand your rights, and find out how to start the claims process.

What Causes Military Hearing Loss? 

Hearing loss in the Armed Forces is most commonly caused by repeated exposure to high-decibel noise. This includes: 

• Gunfire from rifles, artillery or automatic weapons 

• Explosions and combat blasts 

• Helicopter and aircraft engine noise 

• Tank and vehicle operations 

• Naval gunfire and machinery 

In many cases, veterans were not provided with adequate hearing protection. Even when protection was offered, it wasn’t always enforced or effective. Ear defenders were often too bulky to wear with helmets or were simply not issued at all.

The Hidden Symptoms: What to Look Out For 

Not all veterans associate their hearing problems with their time in service. That’s why it’s important to know the common signs: 

• You struggle to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments 

• Family members complain you have the TV or radio turned up too loud 

• You experience constant ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus) 

• You frequently ask people to repeat themselves 

• You feel isolated or anxious in group settings 

If these symptoms started during or after your time in service, there’s a good chance your hearing was damaged due to your military duties.

Why Pre-1987 Veterans Are Affected Most 

Those who served before 1987 are the most likely to be suffering from hearing loss without having received any support. This is because the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) only applies to those who served after that date. If you left before 1987, you were excluded from any automatic entitlement to hearing loss compensation, regardless of the conditions you served under. 

Justice4Heroes is actively campaigning to change this. 

But even now, many pre-1987 veterans may still have a valid claim through legal action, depending on individual circumstances. Our expert legal partners can advise on what’s possible based on your service history and medical condition.

Why So Many Don’t Claim 

There are several reasons veterans delay or avoid claiming: 

• They think their hearing loss is due to age 

• They weren’t aware they could claim at all 

• They feel they wouldn’t win or it would be too complicated 

• They feel ashamed or uncomfortable asking for help 

Let’s be clear: there is no shame in seeking justice for something that happened during service. You were not properly protected. You didn’t have a choice. And you deserve the same rights and respect as any other veteran.

How to Make a Claim 

Justice4Heroes can help connect you with a trusted solicitor who specialises in military hearing loss claims. The process usually involves: 

1. An initial phone consultation to understand your case 

2. A review of your service history and the noise exposure you experienced 

3. A medical assessment to confirm hearing loss or tinnitus 

4. Submitting your case and supporting evidence 

In most cases, claims are handled on a no-win, no-fee basis. You won’t pay anything unless the claim is successful.

Real Lives: John’s Story 

John served in the British Army between 1982 and 1991. He spent long periods training on the firing range, operating armoured vehicles, and working around tanks. By the time he reached his 50s, his hearing had noticeably deteriorated. 

For years, he assumed it was just age catching up. But when his grandson asked why he never answered the phone, John realised how much he had lost. 

With guidance from a solicitor, John decided to explore his options. He found support through Justice4Heroes and began the process of gathering information about his service and symptoms. While every case is different, John felt a renewed sense of confidence knowing he wasn’t alone and that help was available.

You’re Not Alone 

If this blog resonates with you, know that you are not alone. Thousands of veterans are now coming forward, many for the first time, to seek justice for hearing damage caused in service. 

Even if your hearing loss began decades ago, and even if you think it’s too late, it’s worth getting expert advice. You may still be able to make a claim — and we can help.

Final Thoughts 

Don’t suffer in silence. 

Visit www.justice4heroes.org to: 

• Learn more about hearing loss claims 

• Get connected to a solicitor who can assess your case 

• Support our petition to extend compensation rights to all veterans, regardless of service date 

Or go directly to the petition here: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/715800 

Every signature, every voice, and every story helps build the case for change. 

You served with courage. Now let us help serve you.