Vision and hearing

If you wear glasses it is recommended you have your eyes tested at least every two years to make sure your prescription for lenses or glasses is correct. The royal college of Optometrists advises that the general population aged 16 and over should also have a routine eye test two yearly, to ensure problems are picked up early.

Hearing tests for children are completed by audiology services until the age of 16 in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and your family doctor (GP) can refer you to this service. After this age you can still speak to your GP about any worries you have about your hearing and they might refer you to a specialist if needed.

You can also access vision and hearing checks at high street opticians, which usually offer both services. There might be a charge for hearing screening after the age of 16, there are also online tests to help you decide whether you need to see a professional in person about your hearing.

After the age of 16 there might be a charge for an eye-sight test, but if you are still in full-time education or in special circumstances this could continue to be free until you are 18 or 20.