Self advocacy success as breast screening recall letters available in easy-read nationwide

Self-advocacy in action

Working with Sharon, Healthwatch Sunderland reached out to Public Health England and later NHS England and NHS Improvement to address this barrier to access.

NHS England and NHS Improvement confirmed that they could generate recall letters in easy-read, and work to do so was in progress.

But it was during an online call with NHS England, facilitated by Healthwatch Sunderland, Sharon had the opportunity to share her story with NHS decision-makers, which made all the difference.

Healthwatch Sunderland credits Sharon as the driving force behind the implementation of additional easy-read letters for women who are recalled to hospital after a mammogram.

In advocating for her healthcare, Sharon’s powerful story has improved access for women all over England who rely on easy-read for written information concerning their health.