§ Mr. Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what is her Department's policy on which information produced by her Department is published in alternative media to standard print such as Braille, tape or large print;
(2) what arrangements her Department makes to ensure that blind and partially sighted people have access to information produced by her Department where it has not been published in alternative media such as Braille, large print or tape.
§ Mr. BowisThe Department aims to provide the general public with a wide range of information relating to legislation, policy, patients' rights and other health advice. A number of publications have already been produced for people who are visually impaired. Examples are shown as follows:
513WTITLE/TYPE OF PUBLICATION
- Braille
- Patients Charter (also available in audio cassette version).
- NHS Reforms and You (also available in Moon and audio cassette versions).
- Audio Cassette
- Health of the Nation.
- While You Are Pregnant—Safe Eating.
- Elderly Health.
- Community Care Changes in April 1993 (tapes are also available in ethnic minority languages).
- Large Print
- Keep Warm Keep Well (also available in audio cassette version).
- Community Care changes in April 1993.
Moreover the citizens charter, which calls on public services to make sure information about services is easily accessible to all their users, is putting fresh emphasis on the need for effective communication with those who have special needs, including people who are visually impaired.