Individual needs

The Trust aims to ensure that our services are accessible to all patients who may need to use them.  We offer the following:

 

Interpreter Service

The Trust provides interpreter services utilising telephone and face to face interpreters as appropriate to need. Telephone interpreting is available from any Trust telephone. When required we can arrange for an interpreter, including sign language or lip speaking to be present during your outpatient consultation or inpatient stay. 

Outpatient Appointment:  For an outpatient visit please contact the department that you are visiting before your consultation on the number provided on your appointment card or letter.

Inpatient Stay:  To discuss interpreter requirement during your inpatient stay please contact the ward you will be staying on before your admission date on the number provided on your admission notification letter.

Fax Machines

If you would like to have access to a fax machine during your time in hospital this can be easily arranged, just ask a member of staff.

Loop systems

We have loop systems in place in many areas across the Trust which are available for hearing aid users.

Deafsign

From computers in the Trust staff can access Deafsign to support communication with you. Staff will be able to type in instructions; the on screen translation service will convert to British Sign language.

Wheelchairs or other Special Equipment  

You are welcome to bring with you any special equipment that you may need to meet your specific needs during your time in hospital. However, we would recommend that you contact the Nurse in Charge of the relevant area before your admission.

Guide Dogs

Guide dogs are permitted in all of our hospitals. Please note that it is the responsibility of the owner to feed, water and walk their guide dog whilst in hospital.

Carers

Please advise the Nurse in Charge of the ward you will be coming to if you are or have a carer so that they can take your needs into account.

Any other assistance

If you need assistance getting to the ward or department you are visiting in the hospital, please ask the receptionist in the main entrance area who will be happy to arrange help for you.