Information for non-English speaking patients
If you require a translator to be present at your consultation to help with your communication needs, you are welcome to bring a trusted friend or family member to the appointment. Alternatively, we can organise a telephone translating service during your appointment. This is managed by The Big Word organisation. This does not have to be booked in advance. The clinician will phone the translation service on speaker phone and the translator will help communicate in your consultation.
Please let reception know if you require someone to translate at your appointment. The receptionist will then book a double appointment to help allow for the translation requirements.
Signing and braille
If you need help communicating via sign language or braille, you are welcome to bring a trusted friend or family member to the appointment. Alternatively, if you require a translation service, this needs to be booked in advance. Please be aware that it can take up to 7 working days to organise once we complete the relevant paperwork. We use Reading Borough Council’s interpretation and translation services.
You can also access health information on NHS website here www.nhs.uk