Easy Read and Disability Communication: Staff Guide
What Staff Need to Know
Accessible communication is essential for safe and effective care.
Not all patients can understand standard written or spoken information.
What is Easy Read?
Easy Read is a structured format that improves understanding by using:
Simplified language
Visual supports
Clear formatting
When to Use Easy Read
Use Easy Read when supporting:
Patients with learning disabilities
Patients with cognitive impairments
Individuals with low literacy
People experiencing distress or confusion
Good Practice
✔ Use plain English
✔ Speak slowly and clearly
✔ Use visual supports where possible
✔ Check understanding (do not assume)
✔ Allow extra time for responses
✔ Use one question at a time
Common Mistakes to Avoid
✘ Using long sentences
✘ Using jargon or medical terms without explanation
✘ Giving too much information at once
✘ Not checking understanding
Why It Matters
Poor communication can lead to:
Misunderstood symptoms
Incorrect treatment
Increased anxiety
Loss of patient dignity
Good communication improves:
Safety
Trust
Outcomes
Patient experience
Key Message
Accessible communication is part of professional responsibility.
It is not optional—it is essential.
🛠️ Simple Easy Read Template (you can reuse)
You can copy this structure for any topic:
TITLE
- What is it?
- Who is it for?
- What does it do?
RULES (✔ list)
- Short sentences
- Simple words
- Pictures
WHY IMPORTANT
- Helps understanding
- Helps choices
- Helps independence
KEY MESSAGE
- One short, powerful sentence
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