The study reveals how demand for NHS audiology services in Scotland has increased during the last two years.

Hearing loss affects an estimated one in six people in Ms Jamieson's constituency and, with an ageing population, the number of people who need help with their hearing loss will soar in coming years.

She said: “Losing your hearing can be a tremendously isolating experience, making practical tasks such as travelling more difficult and complicating social interaction. In addition to this, evidence suggests that people with hearing loss are more likely to suffer from depression or dementia.

"It is vital that people with hearing loss get the help and support they need, and I was concerned at the report’s findings that budget cuts and increased demand are impacting upon audiology departments across Scotland. "I was particularly concerned to learn that Action on Hearing Loss Scotland’s Ayrshire and Arran project, called Hear to Help, will be closing at the end of March due to a lack of funding.

"I have written to NHS Ayrshire and Arran to register my concerns at this closure, and to seek assurances that local hospitals will be able to cope with increased demand without detriment to service, and that local people will still be able to get monthly hearing aid support in their communities.

"The SNP Government must ensure that audiology departments across Scotland have the staff and resources necessary to continue providing a high quality service despite the increase in demand.” Delia Henry, Director of Action on Hearing Loss Scotland, added: “We are delighted that Cathy Jamieson MP realises the importance of patients not suffering a reduced quality of service due to increases in demand on audiology departments; as well as the positive impacts which third sector volunteers can play in services that are designed to meet the individual needs of patients.

"People – including those who are elderly and housebound or have mobility difficulties – should have easily accessible services in their communities to ensure they can make informed decisions about what support they would like to help them manage their hearing loss; without unnecessary travel or other barriers affecting their everyday life.”