as standard for all venues nowadays, an induction loop amplifier is required. This secondary amplifier is linked into the established audio amplifier.


A special discreet cable is run all around the internal perimeter of the worship area or auditorium and connected to the output of the loop amplifier. Both the beginning and ending of this wire are attached to the loop amplifier in a similar fashion to the beginning and ending of a mains cable ring main system being fixed to a circuit breaker. So, the wire goes all around the relevant area, forming a loop. In operation, the audio frequency induction amplifier generates an electromagnetic field which is dispersed into the auditorium via the unique cable loop.


on the appropriate sounds of the programme which could be anything from a person speaking or soloist singing through to a choir chanting or orchestra playing. Most systems boast the added advantage of both filtering out unwanted background noise whilst at the same time improving the tonal quality of what the hearing aid is picking up, thus making it a much more enjoyable situation for the wearer.


In order to comply with the current legislation hearing loop systems will be found in all manner of places used by members of the public at large. That means that churches, cathedrals, other places of worship of all faiths, public halls, theatres, cinemas and so on might really be just a drop in the loop system ocean! For example, my


loop.


By setting their hearing aid switch to the T (telecoil) position, wearers are enabled to clearly hear the preacher, lecturer, entertainer or whoever else is securing attention from the audience. The hearing device picks up the electromagnetic waves generated by the loop structure and converts these back to audible sounds within the earpiece.


This process allows the hard of hearing to firmly focus


understanding is that small systems are installed in all London and other major city taxis. A miniature microphone is set in the dashboard to pick up anything the driver may wish to address his passengers. London Regional Transport (https://tfl.gov.uk/transport- accessibility/people-with-sight- or-hearing-loss) advise me that, in addition to taxis, induction loops are fitted at many ticket offices, help points, platforms, and some buses. So, hearing aid users should look out for the T loop symbol whenever they use any form of public transport in Greater London and other prime areas. Establishments providing counter services, such as banks, building societies, post offices, hotel and restaurant reception areas, and so on, also have suitable induction loop systems available. As do personal service businesses like doctor and dentist surgeries, opticians, solicitors and more! Again, just watch out for the T sign but if you do not observe such a sign and you are a


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effective solution for smaller organisations.


Portable systems generally consist of a microphone, amplifier and rechargeable battery all built into a single table top stand. Most include an optional external microphone and a charger unit in a purpose designed brief case, making it easy to carry the kit around from venue to venue should this be desirable.


The conveniently sized panel that stands on the table or desk replaces the loop of special cable used in permanently installed larger systems. It generates an adequate strength electromagnetic field in the immediate vicinity to accommodate the requirements of all recent generations of hearings aids.


For most portable systems only the free standing table top panel is actually needed for general use, so there are no trailing wires to worry about. These units incorporate rechargeable batteries and a full charge can last for


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hearing impaired person with a hearing aid, do not be afraid to ask. Some small organisations have a modest portable system on hand for those who request this service.


Although the ideal solution is more often than not an installed loop system that is permanently available without users needing to ask for access, in some instances portable loops offer greater flexibility and a more cost


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