Accessible Information Standard (AIS)
Better communication - Better understanding - Better outcomes
The Accessible Information Standard (AIS) is a legal requirement of the Equality Act 2010 and applies to all health and social care organisations.
The standard requires us to identify, record and meet the needs of patients, carers and parents who need communication support or information in a format you can understand.
For example you might need more help because you are deaf, blind, have memory problems, a learning disability or speech impediment.
These are the five things we must do:
Ask you if you have any information or communication needs, and find out how to meet them
Record those needs in your care plan or patient record
Highlight your file, so it is clear that you need communication support
Share information about your needs with other NHS and adult social care providers, once you have agreed that we can do this
Act - Make sure that you get information in an accessible way and communication support if you need it.
We provide interpreters and information in different languages and formats. Please speak to a member of staff if you need help.
NHS England provide more information about the Accessible Information Standard, including an overview of the standard in a range of accessible formats.
Watch NHS England's video about Accessible Information Standard with British Sign Language