Accessible Information Standard
Accessible Information Standard
What is the Accessible Information Standard?
The Accessible Information Standard – known officially as SCCI1605 Accessible Information – is a new ‘information standard’ for implementation by all organisations that provide NHS or adult social care.
Compliance with information standards of this type is a mandatory requirement, including for NHS Trusts and GP practices. This is set out in section 250 of the Health and Social Care Act.
The Accessible Information Standard aims to ensure that people who have a disability or sensory loss receive information that they can access and understand, for example in large print, braille or via email, and professional communication support if they need it, for example from a British Sign Language interpreter.
The Standard requires organisations that provide NHS or adult social care to:
- Ask: identify / find out if an individual has any communication / information needs relating to a disability or sensory loss and if so what they are.
- Record: record those needs in a clear, unambiguous and standardised way in electronic and / or paper based record / administrative systems / documents.
- Alert / flag / highlight: ensure that recorded needs are ‘highly visible’ whenever the individuals’ record is accessed, and prompt for action.
- Share: include information about individuals’ information / communication needs as part of existing data sharing processes (and following existing information governance frameworks).
- Act: take steps to ensure that individuals receive information which they can access and understand, and receive communication support if they need it.
At South Queen Street Medical Centre , we will ask newly registered patients about their specific needs on our registration form and at their new registration medical.
For existing patients, our staff will routinely ask when you visit. Please help us to communicate effectively with you by making us aware of your specific needs.