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Coventry and Warwickshire Association for the Deaf say they鈥檝e had more than 100 complaints about a lack of sign language interpreters. Royal National Institute for Deaf People has accused the NHS of 'flouting equality law' in its provision for deaf patients in England.

A spokesperson for University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust said:
鈥淲e are committed to providing accessible and inclusive services for all patients, including those who use British Sign Language (BSL).
鈥淪ince January this year, 98% of bookings for BSL interpretation through Language Line have been fulfilled. However, we are sorry to hear of the experience some patients have shared about their needs not being met whilst in our care. Every patient deserves to feel respected and safe in our care.
鈥淭he provision of specialist BSL interpreters is a national challenge and UHCW NHS Trust is not alone in facing difficulties in meeting demand. However, as part of our commitment to continually improve, we are set to engage and consult with local deaf and community groups so we can address any issues with the service directly with users.
鈥淲e welcome this opportunity to listen, learn and improve our services.鈥�

An NHS spokesperson said: 鈥淎ll NHS services are responsible for offering clear and suitable communication and information methods to make sure every patient fully understands their treatment and care, including for those using British Sign Language (BSL).

鈥淣HS England has just refreshed its set of standards to improve the accessibility of information, which includes provision of BSL interpreters online or during face-to-face appointments.鈥�

When asked Languageline who provide BSL interpreters for UHCW said:

"In conjunction with the Trust, we are pleased to engage with representatives from the Coventry and Warwickshire Association for the Deaf, and Deaf members of the community to identify challenges faced by Deaf and Deafblind patients.

Additionally, we will continue to work closely with UHCW to improve services and ways of working, resulting in a more consistent level of support for Deaf and Deafblind patients. "

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