The NHS wants everyone to be able to use health services easily. This includes people with disabilities, learning disabilities, and autism.

Sometimes people need extra support. These changes are called reasonable adjustments. They help make healthcare fair and easier for everyone.

Examples of reasonable adjustments

We can help by:

• Providing wheelchair access where needed.
• Providing letters in large print, or easy-read.
• Contacting you by your preferred method such as text, email, phone, letter or via your carer.
• Providing longer appointments so there is enough time to talk, process information and ask questions.
• Providing information in a way that is easier to understand.
• An appointment at a quiet time of the day. 

Why are reasonable adjustments important?

Small changes can make a big difference. They can help people feel more comfortable, understand their care, and get the support they need.

Reasonable adjustments are a legal requirement. This means healthcare services must consider what support people need to access care safely and fairly.

How can I get reasonable adjustments?

If you or someone you care for needs extra support, please let us know. We can record these needs on your medical record so our staff can provide the right support when you visit us.

You can also:

• Ask to be added to the GP Learning Disability Register if eligible.
• Make sure you attend your health checks, vaccinations, and screening appointments.
• Tell us about any communication or support needs you have.
• Ask about adding important support information to your Summary Care Record.

Sharing information about your support needs

We can add a note to your health record to show to other NHS organisations that you may need reasonable adjustments. This helps healthcare staff understand how best to support you. This is called a Reasonable Adjustment Digital Flag (RADF).

Sharing information about your needs means you are more likely to receive the right support, at the right time.

Useful videos and information

Learn more about reasonable adjustments and how they can help:

• Kareem and Fazilla's story: https://youtube.com/watch?v=6bdxREk9_2I
• How reasonable adjustments improve care: https://youtu.be/IQynWG4LCnw
• What sharing information means for patients: https://youtube.com/watch?v=rophfy0bPhI

If you need reasonable adjustments, please speak to a member of our team to complete a reasonable adjustment form. We are here to help.

Our email address is bswicb.northlandscalne@nhs.net or you can give us a call on 01249 812141 or pop in and speak to our reception team.