Acessible Information Standard (AIS)
Accessible Information Standard (AIS) – Our Commitment at HICA
At HICA, we are committed to making sure that everyone who uses our care homes and homecare services can access information in a way that meets their individual needs. We fully adhere to the Accessible Information Standard (AIS), as required by the Health and Social Care Act 2012.
What the Accessible Information Standard Means
The Accessible Information Standard ensures that people who have a disability, impairment, or sensory loss receive information:
-In a format they can understand
-With the communication support they need
This includes people with:
-Visual or hearing impairments
Learning disabilities
-Cognitive impairment or dementia
-Speech or communication difficulties
How We Meet the Standard
We follow the five key steps of the Accessible Information Standard across all HICA services:
Identify
–We ask people about their information and communication needs when they start using our services and during ongoing reviews.
Record
-These needs are clearly recorded in care plans and electronic records so staff are aware and can respond appropriately.
-These needs are clearly recorded in care plans and electronic records so staff are aware and can respond appropriately.
Flag
-Information and communication needs are highlighted so they are visible to staff at all times.
-Information and communication needs are highlighted so they are visible to staff at all times.
Share
-With consent, we share relevant information with other professionals involved in a person’s care to ensure continuity and safety.
-With consent, we share relevant information with other professionals involved in a person’s care to ensure continuity and safety.
Meet Needs
-We take practical steps to meet identified needs, including:
-We take practical steps to meet identified needs, including:
-Providing information in large print, easy read, or alternative formats
-Allowing extra time for communication
-Using clear, simple language
-Involving family members, advocates, or interpreters where appropriate
Accessible Communication in Our Services
Our staff are trained to:
-Communicate in a respectful, person-centred way
-Check understanding and adapt communication as needed
-Support people to express choices, preferences, and consent
-We recognise that communication needs may change, and we regularly review and update how we support each individual.
Requesting Information in an Accessible Format
If you, or someone you support, needs information from HICA in a different format or requires communication support, please let us know. We will do our best to meet your needs promptly and respectfully.
Our Ongoing Commitment
HICA is committed to continuous improvement. We regularly review our practices, train our staff, and listen to feedback to ensure our services remain inclusive, accessible, and person-centred.
The HICA Group
Hesslewood Country Business Park
Ferriby Road
Hessle
East Yorkshire
HU13 0LH