§ Mr. BurstowTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security by what means her Department makes available its publications in(a) Braille, (b) audio tape and (c) large print; and how this is publicised. [1667]
431W
§ Mr. Frank FieldThe Department and its agencies makes its publications in Braille, audio cassette and large print available by various means.
"A Catalogue of leaflets, posters, and information" (CAT 1) fully lists the Departmental information that is available in alternative formats and a copy has been sent to the hon. Member. This is mailed out to 90,000 intermediaries and advisers annually. Additionally, a Benefits Agency quarterly newsletter, Touchbase, mailed to these advisers, includes advertising on the availability of these products.
Information regarding alternative formats can also be obtained through the various Departmental help lines. The lines themselves are publicised widely through intermediaries, telephone directories, CAT 1, local offices and advertising and direct marketing campaigns.
Benefits Agency information in braille and on audio cassettes is also available from the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) which also lists BA products in their magazines such as Spotlight, Welcome to a World of:, New Beacon and The Bibliography Reading List.
The Benefits Agency is also represented at exhibitions such as Naidex, Nacab and Vision '97 where alternative formats are always made available. Also the Department liaises with employers, intermediaries and advisers, often through mailings, to make them aware of new publications which may be relevant to their employees, clients and customers.
Information about alternative formats is also available from all local Social Security offices.