The Accessible Information Standard gives you the right to be given information and communication support when using health and care services.
If you have a disability, impairment or sensory loss, or are a parent or carer of someone who does, you should expect:
- To contact and be contacted by services in ways you find accessible , for example are appointment letters in language you understand or in a print size you can read
- Services to communicate with you and give you information in a way that you can read and understand. For example, using British Sign Language, large print letters, text, email.
- To be supported at appointments if needed.
- Health and care services to support you to communicate.
What do health and care organisations have to do?
- Ask if you have any communication needs and asked how these needs can be met.
- Record your needs in a clear and set way and highlight these needs in your file or notes so people are aware and know how to meet them.
- Share information about your communication needs with other providers of NHS and adult social care, when they have consent or permission to do so.
- Deliver information to you in a way you can access and understand, with the option for communication support if needed.
Research has shown that only a third (35%) of NHS hospital trusts fully meet the standard
In Shropshire none of the hospital trusts fully meet the standard with the exception of The Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (MPFT) who provide Mental Health Services in Shropshire who in response to the Freedom of Information request, reported that it fully complies with the key requirements of the Accessible Information Standard.
Healthwatch Shropshire welcomes this and hopes other local service providers can progress towards full compliance.