A CHARITY is launching a drop-in centre in Durham where hearing-impaired people can find out about the latest equipment to help them.

Hearing Concern will hold the sessions on the first Tuesday of each month, between 1pm and 4pm, at the Abbey Day Centre, in Pity Me, starting next month.

Simon Milligan, the charity's regional manager, said: "It will be for people who have concerns about hearing loss and will provide information about hearing aids and equipment.

"There are a lot of people who want information about digital hearing aids.

"Rather than phoning someone up, people can come in and have a chat and see the equipment and try it out.

"We have a drop-in centre that has been running in Trinity House, Gateshead, for six months and it has really picked up."

The charity has also launched a battery exchange service at the day centre for people with NHS hearing aids, which is open each day between 10 am and 4pm.

The Chester-le-Street and Durham Tinnitus Self-Help Group is holding a one-day conference in St Cuthbert's Parish Centre, Chester-le-Street, on Friday, between 10am and 3pm.

The event will focus on the conditions and treatments that are available.