Clear hearing. Better living
Unit 1 Commercial House, Commercial Street, Llantwit Major CF61 1RB
about vale hearing healthcare
Founded by Kim Spargo, Vale Hearing Healthcare is built on over 23 years of audiology experience across both the NHS and private sector. After graduating from Cardiff University with a degree in Human Physiology, Kim qualified as a Clinical Audiologist in 2003 and went on to hold senior NHS roles, mentoring future audiologists and developing specialist expertise in hearing care and ear wax removal.
Since becoming a Registered Hearing Aid Dispenser and expanding her clinical qualifications through Aston University and University College London, Kim has delivered expert hearing care across South Wales and was recognised with a commendation for Audiologist of the Year in 2017.
In 2021, Kim welcomed Richard Smith to the team as Practice Manager, qualified Hearing Care Assistant and Ear Care Specialist.
We provide personalised hearing care, bespoke hearing aid solutions, and professional ear wax removal services, with a strong focus on expert advice, tailored solutions, and exceptional aftercare.
The Vale Hearing Healthcare Team
Meet the team
KIM SPARGO - managing director, AUDIOLOGIST & REGISTERED HEARING AID DISPENSER
KIM SPARGO - managing director, AUDIOLOGIST & REGISTERED HEARING AID DISPENSER
KIM SPARGO - managing director, AUDIOLOGIST & REGISTERED HEARING AID DISPENSER
Kim Spargo began her career in audiology over 23 years ago after graduating from Cardiff University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology.
She went on to train with the NHS, qualifying as a Clinical Audiologist in 2003 with the ABMU Health Board, where she progressed into a senior role mentoring BSc Audiology stude
Kim Spargo began her career in audiology over 23 years ago after graduating from Cardiff University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology.
She went on to train with the NHS, qualifying as a Clinical Audiologist in 2003 with the ABMU Health Board, where she progressed into a senior role mentoring BSc Audiology students.
After 12 years in the NHS, Kim moved into the private sector to further expand her expertise in hearing care and the latest hearing technology. Following additional qualifications at Aston University, she registered with the Health and Care Professions Council as a Registered Hearing Aid Dispenser.
In 2014, she completed specialist microsuction ear wax removal training at University College London and has since established ear care clinics throughout South Wales.
In 2017, Kim was nominated by two of her clients for the Audiologist of the Year 2017 award and received a certificate of commendation in recognition of her outstanding service.
Drawing on her extensive NHS and private sector experience, Kim founded Vale Hearing to provide expert, personalised hearing healthcare to her local community.
Outside of work, Kim enjoys walking her two dogs, spending time with family and friends, going to the gym, dining out, and planning her trip away in her camper van.
RICHARD SMITH - director, PRACTICE MANAGER & hCA
KIM SPARGO - managing director, AUDIOLOGIST & REGISTERED HEARING AID DISPENSER
KIM SPARGO - managing director, AUDIOLOGIST & REGISTERED HEARING AID DISPENSER
In 2021, Richard Smith joined the Vale Hearing team as Practice Manager and qualified Ear Care Specialist, working closely alongside our senior audiologist, Kim Spargo. Under Kim’s mentorship, Richard further developed his expertise in hearing care and ear health.
Richard completed his British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA) ap
In 2021, Richard Smith joined the Vale Hearing team as Practice Manager and qualified Ear Care Specialist, working closely alongside our senior audiologist, Kim Spargo. Under Kim’s mentorship, Richard further developed his expertise in hearing care and ear health.
Richard completed his British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA) approved Hearing Care Assistant qualification with Starkey UK and went on to complete his Clinical Ear Care training at The Audiology Academy.
He is fully certified to safely and effectively carry out ear wax removal using both irrigation and microsuction and is a registered member of the BSHAA.
Richard is passionate about providing friendly, professional support to every client and helping ensure each person receives the highest standard of care.
Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing football, cooking, camping, weekend trips away, and walking his dogs.
rACHAEL bARNETT - hca
KIM SPARGO - managing director, AUDIOLOGIST & REGISTERED HEARING AID DISPENSER
rACHAEL bARNETT - hca
Our regular patients may already know Rachael, who joined the Vale Hearing team in January 2024.
With over 10 years of NHS experience as a qualified medical secretary and five years working in private audiology practice management, Rachael brings a wealth of healthcare and patient care experience to the team.
A registered member of the Bri
Our regular patients may already know Rachael, who joined the Vale Hearing team in January 2024.
With over 10 years of NHS experience as a qualified medical secretary and five years working in private audiology practice management, Rachael brings a wealth of healthcare and patient care experience to the team.
A registered member of the British Society of Hearing Aid Audiologists (BSHAA), Rachael completed her hearing healthcare training in our clinic under the guidance of our directors, Kim Spargo and Richard Smith. She also completed BSHAA-approved Hearing Care Assistant and Ear Wax Removal training with Starkey Hearing UK.
Rachael supports our audiology team with routine hearing assessments, hearing aid maintenance and adjustments, and ear wax removal services, while also helping to ensure every patient receives a warm welcome and exceptional care throughout their visit.
Outside of work, Rachael enjoys spending time with family and friends, dining out, and planning her next holiday adventure.
why choose vale hearing?
Patients travel from across South Wales because we offer:
- Qualified, experienced clinicians
- Advanced microsuction and irrigation equipment for safe treatment
- Gentle, patient-focused care
- Convenient appointments with no waiting lists
- Clear, honest advice - We only treat if needed
We pride ourselves on providing a calm, professional experience from start to finish and we are trusted by patients across the Vale of Glamorgan, Bridgend and Cardiff - see what some of our patients have to say about us below or by heading over to our testimonials page.
Patient from the Vale of Glamorgan
“Very clean clinic, modern equipment, and you can tell they really know what they’re doing. I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”
Patient from Barry
“Brilliant service from start to finish. I was seen quickly and the difference in my hearing was instant. Highly recommend Vale Hearing.”
Patient from Penarth
“I was quite nervous before my appointment, but they explained everything clearly and made me feel completely at ease. Very professional.”
Patient from Cardiff
“Easy to book, friendly staff, and the treatment worked straight away. Best ear wax removal experience I’ve had.”