The Accessible Information Standard is now in force

The Accessible Information Standard aims to make sure that people who have a disability or sensory loss receive information that they can access and understand, and any communication support that they need.

Find out more on the NHS England site

All organisations that provide NHS care or adult social care are required to follow the new standard, including NHS Trusts and Foundation Trusts, and GP practices. As part of the accessible information standard, these organisations must do five things:

• Ask people if they have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet their 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 providers of NHS and adult social care, when they have consent or permission to do so.
• Take steps to ensure that people receive information which they can access and understand, and receive communication support if they need it.

Disability Rights UK has contributed to this standard as one of DH's strategic partners, as part of the Win Win Alliance. We would be very interested in any changes/improvements you experience. To contact us, email Bernd.Sass@disabilityrightsuk.org