Accessible Information and Communications

Last Updated: Friday, 10 November 2023

Overview

The Accessible Information Standard is mandatory for all organisations that provide NHS or adult social care, including NHS trusts and GP Practices.

It ensures people with a disability or sensory loss can access and understand information – e.g. in large print or braille, or from a sign language interpreter.

What we do

• Ask people if they have any information or communication needs and find out how we may meet these needs.
• Record those needs within the Patient Record.
• Highlight on the Patient Record so it is clear that they have information or communication needs.
• Share details of these needs with other providers of NHS and adult social care when we have consent to do so (e.g. when being referred to a hospital for further care).
• Ensure people receive information that they can access and understand.
• Ensure people receive communication support if they need it.

Accessible Formats

Some examples of accessible formats are letters and information provided in:

• Braille
• Large print
• Audio file
• Easy Read (written or visual)

Accessible support may also be:

• Support during your appointment
• British Sign Language(BSL) interpreters can be provided for face-to-face appointments
• Using a Hearing Loop System

Letting us know if you or someone you care for has information or communication needs

It is important that you let us know is you or someone you care for needs to receive information in an accessible format or requires support to meet their communication needs.

You can do this any of the following ways:

• Calling Reception on 0151 295 8700
• Emailing us at changemydetails.seftonpark@nhs.net
• Calling in to the surgery and speaking to Reception
• Letting the clinician know during an appointment