Communication and information support services

We offer a range of services to support anyone who has additional communication or information needs, because English is not their first language, or because they have a disability. This includes materials in large print, easy read and braille, and British Sign Language (BSL) and foreign language interpreting services.

It’s our aim to ensure every person using our services has the best possible treatment and care whilst in our care.

If you, your carer or someone you care for requires additional communication or information support, please contact our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on 01372 735243 or by email to est-tr.PALS@nhs.net.

You will find more information about some of the services we offer below.

Interpreting services

Telephone interpreting service

For most consultations and appointments an interpreter via telephonic interpreting will be offered. This enables us to deliver an instant and effective service for more than 170 languages, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

Face to face interpreting (in person and virtually via Attend Anywhere)

Face to face interpreting is also available for some languages, and for certain types of appointments, though some notice is required.

British Sign Language interpreters

We can provide British Sign Language interpreters for those patients that have a hearing impairment. This service needs to be booked in advance through our Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) at est-tr.PALS@nhs.net.

If you require this information in your language please contact + 44 (0) 1372 73 5243:

More information for inpatients

If your carer will need an interpreter to speak to our doctors and nurses while you are in hospital, please tell us before they arrive, if possible, by calling the service or ward. It’s possible that your GP may also advise us.

The nurse in charge of their ward will do their best to make arrangements to provide an interpreter service.

Information support services

Pictorial communication book

A pictorial communication book is available on the ward for people who have a learning disability. This can also be useful to other patients with communication difficulties. Please ask for this if you think it would be helpful.

Contact us

If you need an interpreter, or other communication or information support, please contact est-tr.PALS@nhs.net or call 01372 735243.