Under the Accessible Information Act all patients with a communication need as a result of a disability, impairment or sensory loss are entitled to access NHS services and adult social care in their preferred communication method. This includes communicating with patients in appointments, making contacting your service accessible and communication from your service e.g. letters.
In Barnsley the South Yorkshire Integrated System has a contract with Language Empire Ltd to provide BSL interpreters and the translation of documents into braille etc, and so accessing these services for your patients will not result in a bill for your practice.
The Accessible Information Standard has five parts,
Identify - Ask people if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet their needs.
Record those needs clearly and in a set way.
Flag - Highlight or flag the person’s file or notes so it is clear that they have information or communication needs and how to meet those needs.
Share information about people’s information and communication needs with other providers of NHS and adult social care, when they have consent or permission to do so.
Meet - Take steps to ensure that people receive information which they can access and understand and receive communication support if they need it.
Deaf specialist Services
SHOUT - text DEAF to 85258 for free and immediate mental health support
NHS Inform - videos on a range of topics including vaccinations, health screening and common medical conditions. YouTube also hosts these videos.
SignHealth - video library covers Mental Health, Domestic violence, First Aid
Many charities have produced BSL information videos which are available on YouTube, including Macmillian, Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation.