What's the script? M18

Since August 2016, any organisation that provides NHS and/or publicly funded adult social care services is required to follow the Accessible Information Standard (AIS). This Standard explains how people who have a disability must be able to access information in a format they can use and understand, and they should also expect communication support from health and care services.

Healthwatch Manchester undertook AIS reviews of three pharmacies in the M18 postcode. None of the pharmacists spoken to knew what the AIS is. None of the pharmacies visited provide a BSL relay service for hearing impaired service users. However, two out of the three did provide a hearing loop for service users. None of the pharmacies visited provided large print materials or yellow and black labelling on their products. Only one pharmacy provided easy read materials for service users.

The report has three primary recommendations.

1. Pharmacies should familiarise themselves with the AIS
2. Pharmacies need to provide a BSL relay service that provides instant access to BSL interpreting through video conferencing.
3. All pharmacies need to provide alternative materials such as large print text, yellow and black labelling and easy read materials.