Accessible information as standard
Download (PDF 2.15 MB)Summary of report content
This report brings together the findings of two separate projects that looked at the experiences of people who need accessible information when they use health or care services.
These started under Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Healthwatch Peterborough, who combined on 1 April 2017 and now work together as one organisation.
Between October 2016 and the summer of 2017, Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Healthwatch Peterborough spoke to over 180 people about their experiences of getting accessible information when they used health or care services.
Overall, they found low levels of awareness about the Accessible Information Standard.
The themes that emerged from what people told them were similar in both areas and for most people.
Most people are getting some level of accessible information support. This was variable and even those getting some support are not getting all the support they need.
Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Healthwatch Peterborough informed that it is likely that people are being given treatment without consent as they do not understand what they are consenting to.
Staff attitudes are mostly positive towards providing accessible information. However, the report highlights frontline NHS and care staff would benefit from training in disability awareness and their responsibilities under the Accessible Information Standard.
Healthwatch Cambridgeshire and Healthwatch Peterborough included 8 recommendations within the report.