Hearing loss is one of the most common sensory conditions and is often caused by changes in our genes. We identified seven Irish Traveller families with the same inherited change in the OTOG gene, which causes mild-to-moderate hearing loss from early childhood. Most children were identified through the newborn hearing screening programme, and importantly, their hearing remained stable over time. Our findings show that this genetic change is relatively common in the Irish Traveller population and should be included in genetic testing for affected children from this background. Earlier diagnosis can provide families with clearer information, appropriate support, and more accurate genetic counselling. (https://jmg.bmj.com/content/early/2026/08/24/jmg-2026-111607)