we have not been asked for information in any of the formats described below Staff do not always complete the relevant sections of the form. But, if they did, it would not be immediately apparent where to look for this information. People can have complex difficulties which require an individualised approach which social care have had very little training to be able to implement. There is no way of recording if people need reasonable adjustments e.g. letters in easy read as part of the assessment process. Requested information needed cannot be disclosed due to Data Protection. We have little if any difficulties as we are an organisation with a Deaf, BSL user focus. This has not been a problem in the past. translation services - only generally are available for 'booked appointments' and sometimes it is difficult to ensure the patients attend their appointment due to their lack of understanding of why they have been referred and translation services don't tend to contact the patient to book the appointment. Multi computer systems and the way the information is put on the PC does not make it easy to share or see the obvious. No cohesive approach, issues about confidentiality, patients choice and rights, even we see an obvious need patients may not want to accept or face it so it has to be sensitively handled and it is their choice but it may have consequences which affect treatment so it can be a complicated situation and again how that is documented so everyone is aware is difficult. can't find responsible people, everyone works in silos and when asked simply say "don't know" Previously had dedicated teams to work with people with specific needs, for example sensory teams and learning disability teams. Now more generic working and skill base is reduced - a need for learning across teams. Sign Posting to other support services as well as our own. Few of our members suffer with a learning disability and we tend to discuss any potential issues with the carer/relative in terms of safety issues. This may include ensuring the member has the carer with them at all times and to keep the speed at a minimum. If members have deteriorating vision or cognitive impairment a judgement is made as to how safely a member should continue using a scooter. Should a disagreement arise we suggest the member seek confirmation from a GP or consultant regarding suitability to use. Communication support in terms of interpreters can be costly as can providing all information in a signed DVD format so sometime resources are limited.
I think it is good as it covers all of the possible difficulties that affect effective communication. It gets to the point and not causing any distress to the patient who will want answer and support right there and then at the point of need. It covers everything but for people with a learning disability it needs to be broken down rather than covering it all in one sentence. It would obviously need to be in appropriate format when asked. "Does your <insert disability> affect how you like to receive information from our services?" "What would be your preferred format of information?" The question seems 'wordy' but we're unable to suggest a suitable alternative. Confusing to some? Seems like several questions in one sentence. How about using less words - perhaps just 'Do you need any help to understand information?' the question is too long for people with learning disabilities each difficulty has to be asked separately Is OK when the client / carer has simple rather than complex needs. There are many clients who have complex combined sensory problems, language problems, cognitive problems and one question will not enable full outcome. Plain English language, would elicit a yes or no response however a tick box next to each May be of benefit otherwise you would then need to ask another question to highlight the specific response. It covers a range of needs in a very simple way. Often the NHS and other large organisations can make even the most simple things complicated. Carers, service users, advocates etc. can then respond from their own perspective with the support they feel they need. It is a complex question with a lot of information. It would be easier to understand if it was a series of simple questions e.g. Do you find it difficult to hear what is being said? Do you find it difficult to read? Do you find it difficult to understand? I would remove the first part "Do you find it difficult" the question is far too long and too complex. It should start with a question about the persons understanding. of verbal language, and then depending on the persons level of understanding grade the other parts of the question to take account of this. It is too long for people who have comprehension difficulties and should be broken down into a number of questions.