Devices for your mobile or smartphone

There are things you can do to make your mobile or smartphone easier to use. These include:

• using them with your hearing aid if you have one, so that you can hear calls, music and sounds better
• using the accessibility features available
• using other helpful devices with your mobile or smartphone.

Read our information about using a mobile or smartphone

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Relay UK

Relay UK is a free service that helps people communicate over the phone. It helps deaf people, those who have hearing loss or are speech impaired have better conversations on the phone.

It’s available as an app for smartphones and other devices like laptops and tablets. It’s not available on mobile or landline phones.

Read more about Relay UK

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Devices for your landline phone

There are things you can do to make your landline phone (either corded or cordless) easier to use at home or at work.

These include:

• adapting existing features on your landline phone
• using your landline phone with your hearing aid if you have one, so that you can hear calls better
• using an landline phone designed specifically for people with hearing loss
• using other helpful devices to make calls clearer.

Read our information about using your landline phone

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Video conferencing apps

Our Head of Technology compared the usability of video conferencing apps for deaf people and those with hearing loss.

Read our comparison of the accessibility features of popular video conferencing apps

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Devices to help make conversations clearer

There are assistive devices that can help you hear conversations, such as hearing loops and assistive listening devices

Read more about devices to help make conversations clearer

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How to get assistive devices

Get assistive devices from social services

You may be able to get assistive devices from your local social services. You are entitled to an assessment – contact your local social services to find out more.

Buy assistive devices

You can buy assistive devices from a range of suppliers online. One of these is Connevans, who specialise in equipment for deaf people and those with hearing loss and tinnitus.

We work in partnership with Connevans to make sure you can buy all the assistive devices you need.

If you buy from the Connevans online shop, Connevans donates 10% of the purchase price to RNID, to support our vital work.

Visit the Connevans online shop

Get help paying for assistive devices

If you work

You may be able to get an Access to Work grant. This could help cover the cost of any assistive devices or communication support you need to do your job.

Find out about Access to Work grants

If you’re in education

If you’re a student aged 16 or over, you may get help to cover the cost of any assistive devices or communication support that you need for your studies.

Find out more about help in education