The Hearing Care Partnership
About The Hearing Care Partnership
The Hearing Care Partnership (THCP) brings clinical audiology services to around 400 independent optician practices across the UK. Their unique partnership model embeds qualified audiologists within established local practices, offering patients a manufacturer-independent choice of hearing aids and personalised care.
The Hearing Care Partnership was founded in 2017 by Leightons Opticians & Hearing Care, a family-owned business that has been providing optical care since 1928. Recognising the growing demand for accessible audiology services and the untapped potential of independent optician practices, Leightons created THCP as a way to bring clinical-quality hearing care into local communities through trusted high-street opticians.
The model was simple but innovative: rather than building standalone hearing centres, THCP partners with existing independent optician practices to add a full audiology service within their premises. THCP provides the qualified audiologists, clinical equipment, and brand framework, while the host practice provides the location and its existing patient relationships.
Since its launch, THCP has grown rapidly to encompass over 400 partner practices across the UK, making it one of the fastest-growing audiology networks in the country. The partnership model means patients benefit from the personal service of an independent practice combined with the clinical standards and buying power of a national network. THCP audiologists are manufacturer-independent, meaning they can recommend the best hearing aid from any brand to suit the patient's needs and budget.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 2017
- UK Locations
- 400
- Price Range
- £500–£3,000+ per pair
- NHS Hearing Tests
- No
- Services Offered
- 8
Book a hearing test
THCP Services & Pricing
A full breakdown of hearing care services available at The Hearing Care Partnership, including prices, duration, and NHS coverage information.
| Service | Description | Price | Duration | NHS Covered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comprehensive Hearing Assessment | A full diagnostic hearing test conducted by a qualified clinical audiologist, including otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry. Results are discussed in detail with clear, impartial recommendations. | £50 | 60 minutes | |
| Multi-Brand Hearing Aids | Hearing aids from a range of leading manufacturers including Phonak, Oticon, Starkey, Widex, and Signia. Your audiologist will recommend the best option for your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget without being tied to a single brand. | £500–£3,000+ per pair | 60 minutes (fitting) | |
| Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction) | Safe and effective ear wax removal using the gold-standard microsuction technique. Performed by a trained professional using a microscope for maximum precision and comfort. | £60 (both ears) | 30 minutes | |
| Tinnitus Management | Expert tinnitus assessment and management, including detailed evaluation of symptoms, counselling, and access to tinnitus management hearing aids with sound therapy features. | £50 (initial consultation) | 45 minutes | |
| Custom Hearing Protection | Bespoke moulded hearing protection for musicians, motorsport enthusiasts, swimmers, and industrial workers. Custom-fitted for comfort and optimal noise reduction. | £120–£200 per pair | 30 minutes |
Comprehensive Hearing Assessment
A full diagnostic hearing test conducted by a qualified clinical audiologist, including otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry, and tympanometry. Results are discussed in detail with clear, impartial recommendations.
Multi-Brand Hearing Aids
Hearing aids from a range of leading manufacturers including Phonak, Oticon, Starkey, Widex, and Signia. Your audiologist will recommend the best option for your hearing loss, lifestyle, and budget without being tied to a single brand.
Ear Wax Removal (Microsuction)
Safe and effective ear wax removal using the gold-standard microsuction technique. Performed by a trained professional using a microscope for maximum precision and comfort.
Tinnitus Management
Expert tinnitus assessment and management, including detailed evaluation of symptoms, counselling, and access to tinnitus management hearing aids with sound therapy features.
Custom Hearing Protection
Bespoke moulded hearing protection for musicians, motorsport enthusiasts, swimmers, and industrial workers. Custom-fitted for comfort and optimal noise reduction.
How to Book a Hearing Test at THCP
Follow these simple steps to book your next hearing test with The Hearing Care Partnership.
Find your nearest THCP partner practice online at thcp.co.uk
Book a hearing assessment by phone or online with a local audiologist
Attend your appointment at a familiar, trusted local optician practice
Receive impartial, manufacturer-independent recommendations
Choose your hearing aids and return for fitting, fine-tuning, and aftercare
THCP Pros & Cons
An honest look at the advantages and disadvantages of choosing The Hearing Care Partnership for your hearing care.
Advantages
- Manufacturer-independent advice — not locked into one brand
- Embedded in trusted local independent optician practices
- Clinical audiologists with longer appointment times
- Rapidly growing national network with over 400 locations
Considerations
- No NHS hearing aids — private only
- Quality of experience may vary between partner practices
- Not all services available at every partner location
Why Choose THCP?
Manufacturer-independent — offers hearing aids from multiple brands
Clinical audiologists embedded in trusted local optician practices
Rapidly growing network of over 400 partner locations
No tie-in to a single hearing aid manufacturer
Founded by Leightons Opticians, a family business since 1928
Personalised care with longer appointment times
Frequently Asked Questions About THCP
Common questions about hearing tests, services, and booking at The Hearing Care Partnership.
What is The Hearing Care Partnership?
THCP is a national audiology network that provides qualified audiologists and hearing care services inside independent optician practices across the UK. It was founded by Leightons Opticians in 2017.
Does THCP offer hearing aids from different brands?
Yes, THCP audiologists are manufacturer-independent and can recommend hearing aids from a range of leading brands including Phonak, Oticon, Starkey, Widex, and Signia, choosing the best option for your needs.
How much does a hearing test cost at THCP?
A comprehensive hearing assessment at THCP typically costs around £50, though pricing may vary by location. Some practices may offer free initial hearing checks.
Does THCP offer NHS hearing aids?
No, THCP provides private hearing care only. If you need NHS hearing aids, you should visit an NHS-contracted provider or ask your GP for a referral to your local NHS audiology department.
Can I have my hearing tested at my regular optician?
If your optician is a THCP partner practice, yes. THCP provides audiologists in over 400 independent optician practices across the UK. Check the THCP website to find your nearest participating practice.
Find a THCP Near You
Enter your postcode to check availability and book a hearing test at your nearest THCP location.
Find THCP Near YouVisit The Hearing Care Partnership directly: www.thcp.co.uk