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If you require the help of an interpreter at any of your NHS health appointments please let the health professional you are due to meet know so that an interpreter can be arranged on your behalf.

This service will be provided free of charge. 

NHS help card

The NHS Help Card has been designed to give extra help and support to people who may need it when accessing NHS services.

Each card features a blank panel on the front where you can write down any special requirements and tick a list of different languages on the reverse for those who cannot speak English.

The card holder can indicate their chosen language for interpreting and translation purposes.

You can pick up a card at NHS access points across north of Tyne area (GP practices, health centres etc) and ask staff any questions about the cards or for further support.

The card puts the onus on the NHS to respond and support patients for example if patients need assistance to: hear their appointment being called; be guided where to go; understand English; support a friend or relative; understand what is happening if they have a learning disability.

Further information on the NHS help card is available at www.northeast.nhs.uk/helpcard.

How will the help card be used?

People can use the NHS Help Card if, for example:

• they are unable to walk far
• they are confused, lost or don’t know where to go
• they cannot speak or hear
• they do not understand English
• they have a learning disability 

Family members, friends and carers can also use the NHS Help Card.