Celebrating day for languages

With more than 150 different languages spoken in the area, Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board is marking International Day of Sign Languages (23 September) and the European Day of Languages (26 September) by sharing accessible information online.

A toolbar, which translates information into 100 different languages, reads content aloud and provides tools to help dyslexic people is available on the organisation’s website to make information more easily available.

In addition, a series of short films sharing information about work undertaken this year to support residents have also been produced in BSL.

The move comes following the publication of the Denny Review in September 2023, which highlighted that some people do not engage with health and care services because of language barriers that exist.

Felicity Cox, Chief Executive of Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board said:

“For many people, accessing information in their own language can be the difference between living a long and healthy life – or living with disease and discomfort.

“Language should never be a barrier to receiving quality healthcare. Whether it’s BSL sign language or one of the many different languages that can be heard across our vibrant region.

“Since publication of Reverend Denny’s review, we have taken active steps to produce more content in BSL and make it available in different languages. We’re also working with Autism Bedfordshire to translate a series of explainer videos into different languages, so that people can get the help they need, in the way they need it, when they need it.”

For more information on the Denny Review and our ongoing efforts to tackle health inequalities, visit our website.