Deaf access accessibility report
Download (PDF 4.33 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Hampshire was approached to raise the voices of the d/Deaf Community and BSL interpreters regarding their experiences of accessing various NHS services. They worked with focus groups of Deaf service users and BSL interpreters to develop key questions for two online surveys. In total, Healthwatch Hampshire spoke to over 250 people.
The summary of findings were in relation to key theme around complaints, choice, training and access.
The recommendations within the report inform, health and care settings should review all internal policies to ensure the Accessible Information Standard is complied with. Hospitals should review their PALS complaints procedures. Allow patients and carers flexibility when selecting NRCPD registered interpreters to meet the patient’s needs. To include preference over female/male interpreters or switching interpreters due to conflict of interest. Provide NHS frontline staff with information and access to the appropriate resources to comply with the AIS. Signpost appropriately to other sources of information in appropriate formats (if services cannot provide this directly) such as MacMillan’s BSL information about cancer or Diabetes UK BSL information.