The Accessible Information Standard aims to ensure that people who have a disability, impairment or sensory loss get information that they can easily read or understand with support so they can communicate effectively with services. Examples of the types of support that might be required include large print, easy-read, braille and using a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter.
All health and social care professionals at EPUT are expected to identify and record information and communication needs with patients as early as possible during their care, and are expected to review and update them throughout treatment. Staff are trained to do this.
To meet the Accessible Information Standard, our staff must do five things:
- Ask people if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet these needs.
- Record those needs clearly and in a set way.
- Highlight or ‘flag’ the person’s file or notes so it is clear that they have information or communication needs and how those needs should be met.
- Share information about people’s information and communication needs with other NHS and adult social care providers, when they have consent or permission to do so.
- Take steps to ensure that people receive information they can access and understand, and receive communication support if they need it.
There is more information about the Accessible Information Standard, including the Specification and Implementation Guidance, on the NHS England website at www.england.nhs.uk/accessibleinfo