What is the accessible information standard?

As an NHS organisation, there are a number of standards we need to meet when it comes to making sure everyone can access and understand any information we give out.

The accessible information standard aims to make sure that people regardless of any disabilities have access to all communications, and tells organisations how to make information accessible to patients, service users, their carers and parents.

This includes making sure that people get information in different formats such as large print, braille or easy read via email.

As part of the standard, organisations that provide NHS or adult social care must do five things.  They must:

• ask people if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet their needs
• record these needs in a set way
• highlight a person’s file, so it is clear that they have information or communication needs, and clearly explain how those needs should be met
• share information about a person’s need with other NHS and Adult Social Care providers, when they have consent or permission to do so
• make sure that people get information in an accessible way and communication support should they need it.

The information regarding the standard can be found here.

For further guidance, please contact Navrita Atwal by email navrita.atwal@eastamb.nhs.uk.

Published 8th June, 2017