Need an interpreter?
If you would like things explained in a language you are more comfortable with then we can arrange for professional interpreting services to be available at your appointment or during your stay.
All our clinics, wards and departments have access to telephone and face-to-face interpreting services 24 hours a day.
We also have a number of services for patients who are hearing-impaired.
Interpreting services
The main organisations we work with are:
- Sussex Interpreting Services (video interpreting) – provider of face-to-face overseas language interpreters
- Vandu Language Services (video interpreting) – provider of face-to-face overseas language interpreters
- Action Deafness – provider of face-to-face British Sign Language (BSL) and lip speaking interpreters
- SignLive – remote British Sign Language (BSL) interpreting
- Language Line – provider of telephone overseas language interpreters
If you would like to discuss any communication or other needs that you may need support for then please contact the ward or department using the contact details on your appointment or admissions letter.
Translation
Information in different formats
We can provide letters or patient information in different formats including:
- braille
- overseas languages
- Easy Read
- audio format
- electronic formats
If you would like to discuss any communication or other need that you may needs additional support for, please contact the ward or department (in person, by email or telephone) using the contact details on your appointment or admissions letter.
Textphone and SMS text messaging
The Text Relay service is available for deaf people to use. For detailed information please look at the Next Generation website.
Many of our services will also send a text message to remind you of your appointment. We will also be rolling out a service where you can confirm, cancel and reschedule your appointments by text message.
Signlive for British Sign Language interpreting
For patients that have signed up to SignLive (online BSL interpreting), you can contact our wards and departments (via an interpreter), by selecting Brighton & Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust from the Community Directory after you have logged in to SignLive.
For more information on interpreting and translation
Please contact the PALS team for more information and support on interpreting and translation services.