How Much Compensation for Military Deafness?

How Is Compensation Calculated?

Compensation for military hearing loss is calculated based on two elements: general damages (for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity) and special damages (for financial losses). General damages are assessed using the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG), which provide compensation brackets based on the type and severity of hearing loss.

What Are the Judicial College Guidelines Brackets?

The following brackets are from the Judicial College Guidelines (17th Edition, published 2024) and are used by courts in England and Wales to assess general damages for hearing loss and tinnitus:

• Total deafness: £110,750 to £133,810 — at the lower end where there is no tinnitus or speech deficit. • Total hearing loss in one ear: £38,210 to £55,570 — higher awards where headaches, dizziness, or tinnitus are also present. • Severe NIHL with severe tinnitus: £36,260 to £55,570. • Moderate NIHL and tinnitus, or moderate to severe NIHL/tinnitus alone: £18,180 to £36,260. • Mild tinnitus with some NIHL: £15,370 to £18,180. • Mild NIHL or mild tinnitus alone: around £14,300. • Slight tinnitus with slight NIHL: £8,890 to £15,370. • Slight tinnitus or slight NIHL alone: up to £8,560.

What Are Special Damages?

In addition to general damages, you may be entitled to special damages covering:

• Cost of hearing aids and replacements • Loss of earnings (past and future) • Medical expenses and private treatment costs • Travel costs for medical appointments • Care and assistance costs

Special damages are calculated based on evidence of actual financial losses. Receipts, invoices, payslips, and bank statements help support these claims.

What Factors Affect Your Award?

The final compensation amount depends on several factors: the severity of hearing loss as shown on audiograms, whether tinnitus is also present, the impact on your daily life and employment, your age at the time of claim, and whether the hearing loss is likely to deteriorate further. Each case is assessed individually.