Mark has spent around 18 years in healthcare, mainly in elderly care and community settings, and works as a senior healthcare assistant in Newcastle. He trained with wax. to build a mobile ear care service for older and less-mobile clients across Newcastle and North Tyneside. This is his story, in his own words.
“It felt like a practical service where you can make a noticeable difference quite quickly.”
I've worked in healthcare for around 18 years, mainly in elderly care and community settings.
I'm currently a senior healthcare assistant in Newcastle and spend a lot of time supporting older patients with day-to-day care.
I'd seen first-hand how much blocked ears can affect somebody's confidence and ability to communicate.
It felt like a practical service where you can make a noticeable difference quite quickly, and it also gave me the chance to build something of my own.
I wanted a course that was properly hands-on.
wax. stood out because it covered assessment, different removal methods and the practical side of actually treating patients, rather than just theory.
I found it really enjoyable and very relaxed.
The trainers were approachable and there was plenty of time to practise.
By the end of the day I felt much more confident than I expected.
I learned otoscopy, ear anatomy, contraindications, infection control and when somebody should be referred rather than treated.
The practical training covered microsuction, warm-water irrigation and manual instrumentation.
Definitely.
I'd recommend it to other HCAs who want to use their existing patient-care experience to create an independent service.
My plan is to start with mobile appointments around Newcastle and North Tyneside, particularly for older and less-mobile clients.
I'd also like to approach local care homes and eventually have one regular clinic day each week.
One day of CPD-accredited training with NHS-trained clinicians - all three removal methods, live patients, and the business setup to earn with it.
A CPD-accredited provider, aligned with BSA, NICE and HCPC standards. Every course is taught by NHS-trained ear care clinicians and certified for professional development.



