All I want for Christmas is… accessible health and care information

In May 2023 RNIB launched the My Info My Way campaign in England, following years of campaigning and work alongside the NHS for accessible health and social care information.

My Info My Way was launched as NHS England was preparing to launch the updated NHS Accessible Information Standard, to address the ongoing barriers to accessible information from NHS and social care services.

Unfortunately, throughout 2023 this vital update has been repeatedly delayed, and we do not know when we can expect it to be introduced. That’s why we’re calling on the Health Secretary to do everything she can to get the updated Standard in shape and over the finish line by Christmas.

Ask your MP to stand up for accessible health and care information

Ask your MP to write to the Health Secretary and call for:

• NHS England to publish its updated Standard without further delay.
• Work on accessible information to be adequately resourced and prioritised within NHS England.
• Support for the implementation of accessible information in NHS and social care services, keeping in mind that investment in accessible information will save money over time.

Why we need progress now

People with sight loss and other communication needs face serious risks to health and wellbeing due to a lack of accessible health and care information. It affects patient safety, quality of care, independence, privacy and dignity.

RNIB has heard from many blind and partially sighted people reporting missed medical appointments, delayed test results, misunderstood treatment instructions, unread medication labels and letters from doctors. You can hear some of these experiences in our campaign videos, along with the positive difference made by receiving accessible information.

Read more about the My Info My Way campaign.