The Accessible Information Standard (AIS) is a national requirement for all NHS and adult social care services. It ensures people with a disability, impairment or sensory loss receive information in formats they can understand and the communication support they need.
NHS Essex is committed to meeting the Accessible Information Standard so everyone can access healthcare information and services.
Who the Accessible Information Standard supports
The standard supports people who:
- are blind or have a visual impairment
- are deaf or have a hearing impairment
- have a learning disability
- have a communication difficulty
- use British Sign Language (BSL)
- need information in alternative formats such as large print, braille, audio or easy read
What services must do
Under the standard, NHS services must:
- ask if you have any information or communication needs
- record your needs clearly
- highlight these needs in your records
- share this information with other services, when appropriate
- make sure your needs are met whenever you use NHS services
This helps ensure you receive safe, personalised and accessible care.
If you have communication needs, please tell your GP practice or healthcare provider so they can support you appropriately.
Our commitment to accessible information
NHS Essex regularly reviews its website and communications to make sure information is accessible and inclusive. You can read more in our accessibility statement.
If you need information from NHS Essex in a different format, we can provide:
- audio
- easy read
- British Sign Language (BSL)
- interpreter services
- large print
- braille
Please contact us to request information in a format that meets your needs.
You can read more about the Accessible Information Standard on the NHS England website