Why robust interpretation and translation services are vital for the NHS

In celebration of English Language Day, we’re looking at the importance of ensuring that NHS care providers can communicate effectively with patients of all languages, to remove barriers that can impact patient care. 

Over 840 million people speak English as a first or second language, which makes it the second most-spoken language after Mandarin. It’s an official language of a whopping 67 countries as well as 27 non-sovereign entities.

Yet, according to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 8% (or approximately 4.2 million people) of the population in England and Wales has a main language other than English. In our increasingly diverse population, language barriers can pose a significant challenge to delivering equitable and effective care – especially within the NHS, where speaking a different language could be a barrier to accessing essential services quickly.

Why is a good interpretation and translation service important?

1. Patient safety and quality of care

• Misunderstandings due to language barriers can lead to misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment plans, and medication errors.
• Patients who cannot effectively communicate their symptoms or understand their treatment options may experience anxiety and distress, negatively impacting their overall wellbeing.
• If consent forms aren’t accurately translated, patients might not fully understand the risks and benefits of procedures.

2. Efficiency and cost-effectiveness

• Effective communication can reduce the need for repeat appointments, unnecessary tests, and prolonged hospital stays, leading to cost savings and reduced pressure on services.
• Using professional interpreters and translators, rather than relying on untrained family members or friends, ensures accuracy and avoids potential legal and clinical risks.

3. Legal and ethical obligations

• The NHS is bound by legal obligations, including the Equality Act 2010, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of language.
• Ethical principles, such as patient autonomy and informed consent, require that patients understand their healthcare options.
• The NHS has a duty to provide equitable access to healthcare for all, regardless of the language they speak.

Using a framework agreement for interpretation and translation

Clearly, an inclusive NHS needs to ensure it can understand and be understood. And the most efficient and effective way to do that is by using high-quality interpreters and translators. At NHS SBS, we can make that easy with our Interpretation and Translation Services Framework Agreement.

The benefits of using a framework agreement include:

• Clear policies and procedures: Establishing standardised guidelines for accessing and utilising interpretation and translation services.
• Streamlines the process: Improves efficiency and reduces administrative burden, allowing NHS Trusts to focus on delivering patient care rather than managing complex procurement procedures
• Qualified interpreters and translators: Employing trained professionals who possess the necessary linguistic and cultural competence, particularly in medical terminology.
• Accessibility of services: Ensuring that interpretation and translation services are readily available in various formats, including face-to-face, telephone, and written.
• Supports compliance with diversity legislation: Ensures that patients receive equitable access to healthcare services regardless of their language.
• Training and education: Providing training for healthcare professionals on how to work effectively with interpreters and communicate with patients who have language barriers.
• Monitoring and evaluation: Regularly assessing the effectiveness of the framework agreement and making necessary adjustments.

A comprehensive framework agreement for interpretation and translation is not just a “nice-to-have” – it’s an essential requirement for ensuring patient safety and promoting inclusivity by effectively communicating with the diverse communities.

Flexible routes to market

Via the framework agreement, you can direct award or run a further competition. Our category experts are on hand to support you, ensuring that you use the most effective route for your needs, driving best value and outcomes.

There’s also the option for additional support from our team to run a further competition on your behalf – we can work with individual Trusts on this or enable you to collaborate and implement a single contract across multiple Trusts or at ICS level.

If you have any questions or would like to find out more about how our team and framework agreement could support you, don’t hesitate to get in touch.