Information in the right language & format for you.
We use English when discussing your health or sharing information about our services.
If you need this information in another language or format let your medical professional know and we will provide it for free. We will send it back to your medical professional and they will pass it on to you.
Other formats – e.g. large print, audio and braille, easy read
If you need a document in another format please speak to your medical professional who will arrange this.
You can change the size of text on this website by using the ‘zoom’ function on your toolbar, or use your mouse scroll wheel. Moving this up or down while pressing the ‘CTRL’ button on your keyboard should change the size of the text.
Translation – e.g. BSL videos, written language
There are a number of translated resources available on the NHS Inform website
If we have produced information that you need for your treatment, and you need it to be translated, please speak to your medical professional who will arrange this.
Interpreters – e.g. BSL & Deafblind interpreters, spoken language
Face to face interpreters can be booked in advance for your healthcare appointment or our on-demand phone service may be used to help you communicate during your appointment.
It is against NHS Lothian policy for friends or relatives to act as interpreters during your treatment or appointments. All medical centres and hospitals should have this language chart that can help you explain which language you speak. You can download it and take it with you to your first appointment.
If an interpreter is booked for your appointment but you are running late or need to cancel please let your healthcare professional know as this helps us use our resources efficiently.
BSL users can call Contact Scotland BSL video relay service to speak with their healthcare provider. This is free and provides instant British Sign Language video interpreting 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Minority Ethnic Health Inclusion Service (MEHIS):
Our team of Multi-lingual link workers can help you to access health services and ensure your cultural and personal concerns are taken into account. They can put you in touch with local support services or ethnic or faith communities.
Call: 0131 536 9544 or email: MEHIS@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk
Learning Disability Liaison Nurses:
Our specialist nurses work with patients, their carers and staff to ensure people with learning disabilities receive the communication they need while in hospital.
Feedback on our services:
You can give us feedback on any of our interpretation or translation services feedback@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk in your own language.
