Skip to main content
A photograph of exectuve members of both the Hidden Hearing board and Irish Rail board along with Kevin Quaid
Blog

A New Chapter in Hearing Wellness: Hidden Hearing & Iarnród Éireann Join Forces

17/02/2026 • 2 min read

At Hidden Hearing, we believe that better hearing changes lives. That’s why we’re incredibly proud of our Hearing Wellness Programme with Iarnród Éireann - an initiative designed to empower over 10,000 current and former Irish Rail employees to take proactive steps toward healthier hearing and overall wellbeing.

This collaboration grew from a shared passion for supporting people in both their work and personal lives. It was championed by Dolores Madden, Marketing Director at Hidden Hearing; Ronan Murphy, Head of Customer Experience at Iarnród Éireann; and Dr. Kevin Quaid, Chairperson of the European Working Group of People with Dementia, whose experience and advocacy helped bridge both organisations.

In support of the initiative, we’re delighted to share a short video featuring interviews with the team, scroll down to watch.


Why Hearing Wellness Matters

Iarnród Éireann’s operations span a busy, nationwide network of 172 stations, serving more than one million passengers every week. From engineering and train driving to customer service, administration, and remote roles, the organisation’s workforce is diverse and dynamic, often working in environments where hearing health can be challenged or overlooked.

Dolores Madden, Marketing Director, Hidden Hearing:

“We’re passionate about breaking the stigma around hearing loss. With over 10,000 people set to benefit, this programme is about giving them the support, expertise, and care they need to hear better and live better.”

This programme shines a spotlight on hearing as a vital element of overall health, reinforcing Iarnród Éireann’s commitment to supporting its people and ensuring they feel valued, cared for, and equipped to thrive.

 

What the Hearing Wellness Programme Includes

Through this partnership, eligible employees and retirees can access:

  • A free, comprehensive 7-step hearing assessment, including
    • Video otoscopy (examining the ear canal and eardrum)
    • Pure-tone audiometry
    • Familiar voice test
    • Full results explained in detail
  • Exclusive offers on:
    • Wax removal (microsuction and irrigation)
    • Premium hearing aids
  • Free 6‑monthly check‑ups
  • Free lifelong aftercare and support from Hidden Hearing’s expert audiology team.

With 89 clinics nationwide, every Iarnród Éireann employee, no matter where they’re based, has convenient access to ongoing professional hearing care.

 

A Shared Commitment to Better Hearing

Duncan Graham, General Manager at Hidden Hearing, says:

“For over 35 years, personalised hearing healthcare has been at the heart of all we do. Our partnership with Iarnród Éireann shows how proactive hearing care can become a powerful part of employee wellbeing, helping people protect one of their most valuable senses.”

Dr. Kevin Quaid adds:

“Train stations are busy, noisy environments, and hearing health can be easily overlooked. Everyone deserves access to proper hearing care, and it’s heartening to see these two organisations come together to support staff and their families.”

Watch the Video

Hear directly from the people behind the partnership, why it matters, how it came to life, and what it means for the men and women in Iarnród Éireann.