I was not surprised to read your report (19 June) on accessibility failings in magistrates courts in England and Wales. A few years ago, I gave evidence at a jury trial at Southampton crown court (a building completed in 1986). Wearing a hearing aid, I asked staff if they could ensure that the hearing aid loop was switched on, only to be told that there was no loop system. I was told that the barristers would be asked to speak loudly.
While I managed to give evidence, I am sure that hearing-impaired jury members serving in courts without hearing loops may not hear every word of evidence. Sadly there is a stigma around hearing impairment and hearing aid use.
Jurors who are struggling may feel unable to say so, and justice may not be served in our courts.
Dr Audrey Boucher
Basingstoke, Hampshire
