A Kent-based disability organisation has helped to create aneasy read version of a new NHS document that outlines its plans to improve services for adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD).The easy read version runs alongside NHS Specialised Services’ recently-released document, which aims to make the process easier to understand for people with a learning disability. The document has been published to mark the start of a period of engagement by the NHS on the future shape of its adult services.
Community Futures Kent, part of support provider the Avenues Trust Group, was one of several organisations that, with the help of local people with disabilities, helped to ensure the document was clear and easy to understand.
Almost half of all people with Down’s syndrome are affected by congenital heart problems; therefore the development ofthe easy read version was paramount in ensuring people understand how the NHS plans to help them.
Co-chairman of the ACHD Advisory Group, Professor John Deanfield, said: “This marks a vital step forward towards improving services for adults with congenital heart disease. Patients, families, carers and clinicians should all havean opportunity to ensure that they have a service that is worldclass. I encourage anyone with an interest in the future of ACHD services to take this opportunity to give us their views.”
The easyread document can be accessed here: By Matilda Blackwell
