Please see information below.
“NHS England’s Newborn Hearing Screening Programme (NHSP) has undertaken an evaluation of the current targeted follow-up pathway to assess its effectiveness, consistency of implementation, and contribution to achieving programme objectives. Findings from the evaluation have informed a recommendation paper which proposes a pathway change intended to support equitable, evidence-based and sustainable delivery of targeted follow-up for babies and children with a risk factor for hearing loss who are not identified with permanent deafness from birth.
We are now seeking stakeholder feedback on the recommendation before any final decisions are made. Given your important role in representing professionals working across newborn hearing screening, audiology, paediatrics and related services, to ensure we capture a diverse range of perspectives, we would appreciate your assistance in cascading this consultation to relevant colleagues, networks, member organisations, and professional groups who may have an interest in or be affected by the proposed recommendation.
As a valued stakeholder, we would be grateful if you could review the attached Recommendation Paper: Evaluation of the NHSP Targeted Follow-Up Pathway and provide your views through the consultation process.
We would particularly welcome feedback on:
- The proposed recommendation and rationale
- Potential benefits, risks, and unintended consequences
- Operational and service delivery implications
- Impact on children, families, and healthcare professionals
- Equality, health inequalities, and accessibility considerations
- Any additional evidence, information, or perspectives that should be taken into account
Consultation documents:
- Recommendation Paper link: Evaluation of the NHSP Targeted Follow-Up Pathway
- Consultation survey link: Stakeholder Consultation: Proposed Changes to the NHSP Targeted Follow-Up Pathway
Consultation closing date: Friday 18th December 2026
Following the consultation period, all feedback will be reviewed and considered as part of the final decision-making process. A summary of the consultation findings and next steps will be shared with stakeholders in due course.
Thank you for taking the time to review the proposals and contribute to this important piece of work. Your expertise and perspectives are invaluable in helping ensure that NHSP continues to deliver high-quality, evidence-based services for babies and families.
Should you have any questions regarding the consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected]. “