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The TICS programme of work has the following main strands:

• Development of a procurement framework to improve quality and service delivery for interpreting in community languages including BSL (British Sign Language). This covers face to face, telephone and online (for BSL) interpreting.
• Improvement to communication support to people with other communications difficulties (which may arise for example from brain injuries or learning disabilities) through a programme of work with relevant health professionals and many voluntary groups.
• Delivery of a co-ordinated approach to TICS issues relating to access to health services and to health information – for instance to translations and alternative formats, to signage and to accessibility of appointments and prescriptions.

As service improvements are developed, we will also be working in parallel on training and communications to build staff awareness and skills in working with people with language and communication support needs. Improvement in staff understanding of needs and support mechanisms will be essential to the final impact of the work on patients with TICS needs.