Translation Services - FOI Response Register

FoI Number
2024-057
Subject
Translation Services
Date Received
23/04/2024
Request and Response
  1. Does the Health Board work with translation services that translate healthcare information communications, e.g. leaflets, letters, posters etc?

    Much healthcare literature is provided in commonly requested languages, for example the resources found at NHS Inform: https://www.nhsinform.scot/translations, also Public Health Scotland offers translation of downloadable resources of most commonly requested languages, e.g. Polish via their portal.

    We use Languageline for specific requests for translations that are not already available, and also other providers such as Deaf Action for BSL translation.
  2. How many healthcare information leaflets/communications did the Health Board produce and print in FYE 2024?

In accordance with FOISA s 17(1), NHS Shetland confirms that it does not hold the information requested.

How many of these were translated in multiple languages?

We received no requests for translating leaflets in 2023/24.

  1. Which languages does the Health Board normally translate healthcare information communications into?

    None routinely, it is done on request.
  2. How are healthcare information communications delivered to patients that are visually impaired?

    We have in the past accessed braille translations but have not had this requested for quite some time. There is the immersive reader option if people are using a computer to access information.
  3. What did the Health Board spend on translation services for healthcare communications in FYE 2024?

Total for translation services - £2.7k (not just healthcare communications).

  1. What did the Health Board spend on printing of healthcare communications in FYE 2024?

Total printing costs - £54.8k (please note this is the total cost and not just for healthcare communications.

  1. Please provide the name of the person responsible for managing the creation of healthcare information communications?

    It does not sit with one department, with healthcare information being generated in a number of areas.
  2. Does the Health Board offer in-hospital way-finding or signage in any language other than English?

    No, this has not been identified as a need.