Our accessibility team have created a new easy-read dictionary to help people with learning disabilities.
The dictionary comprises 50 standardised photo symbols which people with lived experience have selected to ensure their communication – including leaflets, medical letters and documents – is consistent and more accessible.
These resources will be used by local health and care organisations, council and any interested organisation.
Accessibility champions, Suzannah Cook and Keira Ramsden who spearheaded the project, worked with University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW), North Bristol NHS Trust (NBT), Avon and Wiltshire Partnership (AWP), South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, and Bristol councils.
This partnership enabled the team to ensure the dictionary aligns with the needs and experiences of people with learning disabilities across various regions. The project has also been supported by WECIL, My Community Project and Stepping Stones to Independence.
Suzannah Cook, Accessible Communications and Engagement Lead at Sirona, said: “Our aim is to ensure everyone has equal access to information and services.
“People with learning disabilities can struggle to access healthcare services due to communication difficulties.
“By using a standardised dictionary of key images, individuals can benefit from a familiar format and vocabulary, enhancing their understanding and engagement.”
The dictionary adheres to strict accessibility standards, ensuring it is inclusive and usable by people with a wide range of abilities. The invaluable resource will also help families, carers, and health professionals to communicate with their loved ones and those they are caring for.
Laura Hindmarsh, Inclusive Community Development Lead for the My Community Project, said: “We hope the dictionary will enable more people to access their medical information.”
Robert, Advocate and WECIL member, added: “It’s good to help people and to make sure people can get accessible information.”
Any organisations who work with people with learning disabilities can request a copy of the easy-read dictionary by emailing sirona.communications@nhs.net
