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Accessible Communications Policy

We want every patient to understand their care and feel supported.

If you have a disability or health condition that makes it hard to get information or speak to us, we will do our best to help.

This includes if you:

  • Are blind or have sight loss
  • Find it hard to read our letters
  • Use British Sign Language (BSL)
  • Need large print, audio, Braille or Easy Read
  • Need an interpreter
  • Prefer email or text instead of phone calls
  • Have a carer or support person who helps you

We can:

  • Record your needs in your notes
  • Add a reminder for staff
  • Plan appointments at quieter times (like early morning)
  • Use quieter rooms if needed (with notice)
  • Help your carer get access (this is called proxy access)
Support we can arrange

British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreting

  • Qualified, DBS-checked BSL interpreters
  • In-person or video appointments
  • Pre-booked or emergency cover available

Deaf Relay Interpreting

  • For patients with additional needs or who use a rare sign language
  • Adapted to suit individual communication styles

Deafblind Communication

  • Includes hands-on signing and manual alphabet into the hands
  • Tailored to your level of sight and hearing

Sign-Supported English (SSE)

  • Spoken English supported with sign for those who don’t use full BSL

Lipspeaking and Notetaking

  • For patients who lipread or prefer written summaries
  • Notetakers provide clear, accessible notes of what was said

Speech-to-Text Reporting (STTR)

  • A live reporter types every word of the conversation as it happens
  • Text appears on a screen for you to read in real-time
  • Captures everything said, including tone and background sounds

Video Interpreting (Remote BSL)

  • Interpreter joins your appointment securely by video
  • A good option if in-person cover is not available quickly

Written Translation and Braille

  • Letters and information can be provided in another language, Braille, large print, or audio format
  • Over 200 languages supported for document translation

Please tell us what works best for you. If we know what you need, we can support you better.

Accessible Complaints and Feedback

If you want to make a complaint or give feedback, you can:

  • Tell reception
  • Ask to speak to the Office Manager
  • Ask for a feedback form
  • Send a letter

We can give you our reply in a way that suits you.
This could be by email, phone call, audio, large print, or in person with support.

Complaints are handled by Dr Sahar Shahbaz, our lead GP.

If you need help to make a complaint, please ask. We can help you or support your carer to do this.

Page published: 27 June 2025
Last updated: 8 July 2025