From The Hearing House to the Courtroom: Alison’s Journey to Becoming a Young Lawyer

Last month marked a truly special milestone for Alison Winstanley and her family — her admission as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand. This means Alison is now a qualified lawyer, authorised to represent clients and provide legal advice, a remarkable achievement and the culmination of years of dedication, study, and support. Alison also holds a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), further showcasing her drive and expertise. 

Alison Winstanley - now officially a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand

Alison is a cochlear implant user and has had a lifelong connection with The Hearing House, where she received vital services including audiology, and specialist listening and spoken-language support. 

One of her treasured photos shows Alison as a toddler at a Hearing House event, where she met Sir Patrick (Pat) Eisdell Moore, the pioneering ENT surgeon who founded The Hearing House. Sir Pat was a medical innovator performing the world’s first eardrum transplant, introducing microsurgery in ear operations, and championing cochlear implants in New Zealand. His vision was to create lifelong, holistic support for children and adults who are deaf or hard of hearing. 

Alison Winstanley as a toddler at a Hearing House event

Alison’s mum, Di, remembers that first meeting vividly — Sir Pat gently engaging with her young daughter, a touching encounter where his decades of medical wisdom met the story of a child just beginning hers. 

Reflecting on her daughter’s journey, Di says, “What she has achieved is due to the skill, passion, diligence, and support she received from The Hearing House. There isn’t a day that goes by when I don’t think about those early foundations that allowed her to fulfil her potential.” 

Alison’s story is a powerful reminder of how the specialist care and lifelong support from The Hearing House can empower people and transform lives. Her success shows the enduring impact of early intervention, expert care, and unwavering belief — from those first sounds to a confident voice in the courtroom. 

Alison Winstanley