Hearing Wellness Week 2026
Hackney, March 2026: Be part of the UK’s first audio inclusive festival
Hearing Wellness Week is a first of its kind festival dedicated to reimagining how we experience sound. From calming sound baths and multisensory workshops to accessible live music and thought-provoking talks, the programme celebrates sound in all its forms designed for both the noise-sensitive community and the sound-curious alike.
Why Hearing Wellness Matters
Sound affects everyone, but not everyone experiences it the same way. The Hearing Wellness movement is built on evidence, empathy, and opportunity.
Noise sensitivity
1 in 3
≈20M people in the UK, including neurodivergent, ageing and hard of hearing communities.
Public health
No. 2
Environmental noise is the second largest environmental health risk after air pollution.
Indoor soundscape
70 dB+
Typical in offices, restaurants and nightlife, above comfort thresholds for focus and conversation.
Source: DEFRA / WHO / Hospitality Noise Study (2024)
Business impact
86%
won’t return after a bad noise experience; acoustics rank in top 3 venue complaints.
Source: VisitBritain & Which? (2024)
Design for hearing wellness to improve guest comfort, dwell time and loyalty.
Sponsors and venues that act now can lead a movement that’s ethical and economically sound.
What’s It All About
The Hearing Wellness Festival is part of a growing global movement to rethink our relationship with sound. Running alongside World Hearing Day (3 March), it challenges the old idea that louder is better, inviting us instead to design and experience sound with intention.
From mindful listening to inclusive design, the festival celebrates venues and communities leading this shift from noise as entertainment to sound as connection. It’s about transforming how we live, work, and socialise, creating environments where everyone, including the 1 in 3 of us who are noise-sensitive, can participate fully and joyfully.
Born in Hackney and powered by Sownd Affects, the week-long celebration brings together local partners, global thought leaders, and the wider community to explore hearing wellness through workshops, talks, and sensory-led experiences. Together, we’re proving that inclusive sound isn’t just ethical, it’s essential to wellbeing, creativity, and belonging.
Who is our festival for?
Hackney is leading the way as the UK’s first audio inclusive borough, creating spaces where 1 in 3 of us who are noise sensitive can enjoy culture, connection, and community without the overwhelm.
- ✅People who feel overstimulated or excluded in noisy spaces
- ✅Neurodivergent community, hard of hearing, tinnitus, misophonia, hyperacusis
- ✅Anyone over 50 experiencing age-related hearing changes
- ✅Culture lovers seeking inclusive, sensory-conscious events
What’s On in 2026
Sonic Dining Experience
Multi-sensory mindful supperclub
Intimacy Workshop
How sound influences intimate experiences with Sex Educator
Food & Sound Pairing
How sound influences taste with award winning Gastrophysist
Business Panel Talk
Noise Impact on revenue for Hackney Entrepreneurs
Audio Inclusive 101
Workshop for local businesses - How to nurture a sound conscious culture
Silent Speed Dating
Lip-reading workshop - Experience a speed date with a deeper connection
Literal Speakeasy Pop-up
A cocktail bar experience where you can literally speak with ease
Bar takeover
Silent Discos and HWW launch reception
With accessibility and inclusivity at its heart, Hearing Wellness Week offers something for everyone from moments of reflection and calm to joyful, multisensory celebrations.
Get involved
Sponsor
Limited sponsorship places left
- Brand visibility across festival communications
- Inclusion in PR activity and co-created content
- Association with wellbeing, accessibility, inclusion
Host
Apply to host a host festival experience
- Featured in official programme
- Increased visibility to sound-conscious audiences
- Align with Hackney’s audio inclusive journey
Attend
A chance to meet your community
Sign up now for first access to tickets when they’re released. Early subscribers get priority booking and festival news.
- Immersive sound experiences & workshops
- Accessible performances and expert talks
- Tickets coming soon don’t miss out
A word from the Mayor of Hackney
on why Hackney is championing Hearing Wellness Week
Ready to get involved?
Talk to our team about sponsorships, hosting opportunities, or collaborations.
Contact us❓ FAQs
How do I attend?
Sign up to our mailing list, we’ll email you as soon as tickets and wristbands are available. Many events are free, but spaces are limited.
Where is it happening?
Across Hackney, from cultural venues like Mama Shelter to community spaces hosting sound baths, workshops, and panel talks.
Who is it for?
Everyone. Whether you’re noise-sensitive, neurodivergent, hard of hearing, or simply curious about sound, there’s something for you.
Why Hackney?
Hackney is leading the UK’s journey to become the first Audio Inclusive Borough, showcasing how hearing wellness can shape better community experiences for all.
Do I need any special equipment?
No. Just bring an open mind and a willingness to listen differently.