A significant hearing loss is one that delays or prevents the development of speech and language. The newborn hearing test allows children born with a significant hearing loss to be identified at an earlier stage, on average, than was previously the case. The identification enables the earlier provision of the right services, which will help the child to develop better language and communication skills. An Early Years Support Team will be available to provide support for you and your baby. The team includes an audiologist, a specialist teacher and a specialist doctor. A speech and language therapist and social worker may also be part of the team.