About Harbour Hearing & Balance
Precision Diagnostics. Personalised Care.
A partnership built on care, quality and compassion
Harbour Hearing & Balance was founded in 2025 by Clinical Scientists Michael East and Rory Smith, with the goal of providing class-leading audiological assessment and care.
With backgrounds that span both independent practice and senior NHS roles, Michael and Rory offer a rare breadth of expertise in audiology. Their experience ensures that every assessment is scientifically robust, patient-centred, and seamlessly aligned with wider healthcare pathways.
Harbour Hearing & Balance also works in partnership with a network of ENT consultants and healthcare providers across the South of England, enabling smooth onward referral and continuity of care where required.
Whether you are seeking clarity around hearing difficulties, unexplained dizziness, or specialist paediatric assessment, our mission is to deliver answers, reassurance, and practical next steps. By combining advanced technology, clinical excellence, and trusted professional relationships, we aim to help every patient feel confident, informed, and supported throughout their care journey.
Michael East Clinical Scientist & Director
Michael began his career in audiology in 2014 and has since built a broad portfolio of clinical, educational, and leadership experience across hearing and balance care. He has held senior NHS positions including Head of Vestibular Assessment and Rehabilitation at a large trust in the South of England, as well as roles in complex paediatric assessment.
Alongside his work at Harbour Hearing & Balance, Michael is a Clinical Educator for a leading audiometric equipment manufacturer, teaching doctors, audiologists, and physiotherapists worldwide. He also contributes regularly to the profession through conference presentations, scientific events, and guest lectures at universities.
Michael brings this unique blend of clinical expertise, academic grounding, and international teaching experience to his work at Harbour Hearing & Balance, ensuring patients receive care that is both evidence-based and individually tailored.
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BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Audiology) — University of Southampton
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MSc Clinical Science (Neurosensory Science) — Aston University
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National School of Healthcare Science Scientist Training Programme (STP) — leading to registration as a Clinical Scientist
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BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Audiology) — University of Southampton
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MSc Clinical Science (Neurosensory Science) — Aston University
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National School of Healthcare Science Scientist Training Programme (STP) — leading to registration as a Clinical Scientist
Rory Smith Clinical Scientist & Director
Rory brings over 15 years of specialist audiology expertise to his role as Head of Department for a leading NHS audiology service. He specialises in paediatric audiology, evoked potentials, and vestibular diagnostics and rehabilitation and has built a reputation for clinical excellence and leadership.
Beginning his career with a BSc in Audiology and completing the prestigious Scientist Training Programme, Rory progressed into influential positions as Clinical Lead for both Paediatrics and Vestibular Services across major NHS and private centres. He continues to shape the future of the profession by providing expert care to private clients, mentoring BSc and MSc students, and delivering advanced training to medical professionals.
Driven by a commitment to exceptional, patient-centred care, Rory applies the same focus and dedication to his personal life—whether spending time with his wife and two young sons, taking on home renovation projects, or maintaining his discipline through gym training and rowing; pursuits that reflect his energy, discipline, and commitment to personal well-being and reflective of the qualities he brings to his audiology practice.
In Partnership Between
Harbour Hearing & Balance works in close partnership with several leading local healthcare providers to deliver holistic and well-rounded care.
Testimonials
Done it right. Impressive services!
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