Testing the Accessible Information Standard Self-Assessment Framework Pilot in Leeds
Exploring how well the refreshed Accessible Information Standard Self-Assessment Framework works in practice.
Accessible Information Standard Self-Assessment Framework Pilot Report
Published 19 May 2025
Written by Tatum Yip and Katie Joenn
If you would like the report in another format, please contact us on 0113 898 0035 or email the team at info@healthwatchleeds.co.uk
NHS England chose Leeds as one of two pilot sites to test the new framework, which is due to launch nationally in 2025. The review of the Accessible Information Standard (AIS) by NHS England recommended the introduction of an enhanced assurance process, i.e. a self-assessment framework, to measure an organisation's performance against the standard using a structured set of metrics.
The Accessible Information Standard is designed to ensure that people with communication needs, including those who are d/Deaf, blind, visually impaired or who have learning disabilities, get the information they need in a format that they can understand.
The proposed Self-Assessment Framework (SAF) helps organisations review how well they meet the AIS and identify areas for improvement. Healthwatch Leeds and Leeds City Council (Adult Social Care) has been working with a range of partners across health and social care to undertake a pilot in Leeds for 6 months, between October 2024 to March 2025, to test the AIS SAF. Over 40 organisations in Leeds took part in this pilot, including hospitals, GP practices and community care services. Healthwatch Leeds was tasked to provide feedback on the framework's effectiveness and relevance.
This report presented the findings and recommendations of the SAF, including its questions, scoring system and guidance.
Highlights
The SAF was useful as a reflective tool, helping organisations think more about how they support people with communication needs.
However, only 29% of participants found the framework fit for purpose, with most saying it needs clearer guidance and a better scoring system.
Respondents raised concerns about the questions, binary scoring system, and lack of integration with other NHS tools or Care Quality Commission (CQC) processes.
Why this matters
The report includes clear recommendations for NHS England on how to improve the framework before the national rollout.
Improving how health and care services communicate is key to making sure everyone can access the care they need, in a way they understand. This pilot shows there is a strong commitment across Leeds to making communication accessible but also highlights where national tools must improve to support that goal.
Read the full report and recommendations.