Opening up access: new communication cards for deaf and hard of hearing patients
Co-designed with local communities to ensure needs are clearly signalled at health appointments
We teamed up with Rotherham Sight and Sound and Rotherham Deaf Futures to co-create a simple tick-box card. Whether you need lip-reading support, a British Sign Language interpreter or information in writing, these cards make your needs visible from the moment you walk through the door.
At our launch events on Ship Hill and at Springwell Gardens, members of Deaf Futures tried out the prototypes, shared candid feedback and celebrated a tool built for them. As local resident Dean Williams said, “This card will boost my confidence at appointments and help staff know exactly how to support me.”
Over the next few months, you’ll spot our communication cards in every GP practice, clinic and hospital across Rotherham. We’re also piloting a digital version for online bookings and rolling out training sessions so healthcare teams can respond swiftly and appropriately.
Read the Rotherham Advertiser's story on
Ready to make your appointments smoother?
Request your free communication cards or find out more by
email; info@healthwatchrotherham.org.uk
or calling 01709 717130.
Together, we’re breaking down barriers—and making sure every voice is heard.
About the accessible information standard
The accessible information standard sets out how providers and commissioners of NHS and publicly funded adult social care services should ensure disabled people and people with impairments or sensory loss:
- can access and understand information about NHS and adult social care services
- receive the communication support they need to use those services
All organisations that provide publicly funded NHS care or adult social care must have regard to this standard. Commissioners of NHS or social care must also have regard to this standard. Complying with the standard will also help organisations to meet their obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and other legislation.
Read the full NHS update on the link below
The updated Accessible Information Standard is now available
