At angli-EAR Hearing, we believe in making a difference — not just here in Cambridgeshire, but wherever hearing care is needed most. That’s why we’re so proud of our amazing Hearing Care Assistant, Kirstie, who recently returned from a life-changing trip to Sainji, a remote village nestled in the foothills of the Indian Himalayas.
As part of her apprenticeship with Anglia Ruskin University, Kirstie spent two weeks volunteering in this rural region, where access to healthcare — especially hearing support — is extremely limited. “It was a no-brainer,” Kirstie says. “I’ve always wanted to go to India, and to be able to go and help out the community made it even more meaningful.”
While there, Kirstie worked with local groups to raise awareness about ear health and the importance of hearing care. Without access to electricity in some villages, treatment wasn’t an option — but prevention and education became powerful tools.
“I led sessions on how to spot signs of ear infections and how to care for your ears properly,” she explains. “We met with the Van Gujjars, a nomadic group of buffalo herders, and it was such a privilege to be the first audiology professional they’d ever spoken to.”
Kirstie also contributed to broader health initiatives during her stay, including women’s health clinics and first aid training. “The communities were so welcoming,” she recalls. “We were offered food, shown around people’s homes — and even invited to a wedding!”
While she couldn’t leave behind equipment due to the need for follow-up care, Kirstie hopes the knowledge she shared will have a long-term impact. “It’s made me realise how lucky we are in the UK to have such ready access to hearing care. I’ve come back feeling even more passionate about supporting our local community and beyond.”
Kirstie is also fundraising to support further audiology and health education efforts in Sainji. If you’d like to contribute, you can find the link to her JustGiving page here.
Well done, Kirstie — we’re so proud to have you on the angli-EAR team!
