Easy read breast screening recall letters now available for all patients who require them nationally

Sharon Bell who has learning disabilities, received an invitation for a routine mammogram in easy read - a format which she needs to fully understand written information about her care.

But when the results of the mammogram meant that Sharon had to be recalled for further tests, the additional letters she received were not in easy read, meaning the 58-year-old had difficulty following them.

Sharon highlighted her experiences to Healthwatch Sunderland, which raised the issue with national bodies NHS England and NHS Improvement. As a result, a series of template follow-up letters have now been translated into easy read, improving the experiences - and potentially the safety - of countless breast screening patients across the country.

Sharon said:

“When I received the letter to go to the hospital I didn’t know what it said, as it wasn’t in easy read. This made me nervous, but I spoke to Healthwatch and now I feel really good that we have been able to help so many women across the country who need easy read letters.”

Tara Johnson, Project Lead of Healthwatch Sunderland, said:

“It was very concerning that lots of women who needed further investigations after routine mammograms were not receiving letters in formats they could understand, as this could cause unnecessary additional worry and distress and could potentially have safety implications if appointments are missed and delays caused to diagnosis.  

Copies of the Easy Read breast screening and follow up templates can be download at: NHS accessible format breast screening informaed choice letters.