A big-hearted woman from Salford is preparing for a humanitarian trip to Bangladesh, where she aims to provide free health care to hundreds of people living without access to vital services.
Habiba Akhter, an audiologist at a Specsavers in Swinton, has launched the ‘Hear For Bangladesh’ campaign, which will see donated hearing devices collected, refurbished and fitted for children and adults in need during a planned trip in 2026.
The initiative has already secured around 400 donated hearing devices as part of a move by the company to help more than 200 people regain their hearing.
Habiba will travel to the northeastern region of Bangladesh, where she will work to provide hearing care to hundreds of people living without access to vital services.
Her project has been inspired by a personal visit to the country in 2025, where the scale of the problem became clear.
“I visited Bangladesh last year and was deeply affected by the lack of access to even basic hearing care,” Habiba said.
“Many people are living with untreated hearing loss simply because they cannot afford help or don’t have access to services.
“Through my work, I see hearing devices being upgraded and replaced, and it made me think about how these devices could be reused to change lives elsewhere. This project is about taking something that is no longer needed here and giving someone else the chance to hear, learn and connect again.”
She has called on Salford residents and businesses to contribute to her fundraising effort.
“Even something as small as a donation can make a huge difference – just £10 can provide batteries for months,” Habiba added.
A Specsavers spokesperson said: “Bangladesh faces significant challenges when it comes to hearing care, with many people unable to afford hearing devices and limited access to audiology services, particularly in rural areas such as the Sylhet region, where the project will take place.
“Through partnerships with a local hearing aid company, patients will be identified and assessed before receiving fitted and programmed devices. The project also aims to leave a lasting legacy by supporting and training local providers to continue delivering care.
“Untreated hearing loss can have a profound impact on people’s lives – from limiting children’s ability to access education, to increasing isolation and reducing opportunities for adults. The Hear For Bangladesh campaign seeks to address these issues head-on, restoring communication, confidence and independence.”
More information about the Hear For Bangladesh campaign or to support the initiative is available here.
