Physical & Sensory Disability JSNA

Evidence base

This section provides links and a brief summary of a robust evidence base. For example, peer-reviewd studies, systematic revies, evaluations of interventions and best practice guidelines from national sources.

Issue number 1 = highest priority
1	Source	NHS England
	Title incl. web link	Accessible information standard NHS England » Accessible information standard
	Summary	Ensures that people with a disability, impairment or sensory loss receive information in formats they can understand and are supported to communicate effectively. Key Requirements: Identify individuals’ communication needs. Record those needs clearly and consistently. Flag needs in records. Share needs with other providers. Meet needs by providing accessible formats (e.g., braille, large print, BSL interpreters). Under the Equality Act 2010, NHS services must make reasonable adjustments for disabled people, including those with mobility impairments. Examples include: Wheelchair-accessible facilities. Longer or priority appointments. Use of mobility aids and accessible transport. Quiet waiting areas and support with communication.
	Source	Disability Unit & Equality Hub
	Title incl. web link	Disability Action Plan Disability Action Plan - GOV.UK
	Summary	Aims to make the UK the most accessible country for disabled people. It focuses on inclusive design, accessible communication, and collaboration with disabled people. Includes commitments to improve digital accessibility, transport, and public services.
2	Source	NHS England
	Title incl. web link	Accessible Information Standard – implementation guidance NHS England » Accessible Information Standard – implementation guidance
	Summary	The Accessible Information Standard requires NHS and adult social care providers to identify, record, flag, share, and meet the communication needs of people with sensory loss. Staff training is a key part of implementation, including raising awareness of sensory impairments and their impact on access to care.
	Source	Department of Health and Social Care
	Title incl. web link	Sense Slide 1
	Summary	DHSC has funded projects like Sense’s Enjoy Life campaign, which trains health and social care staff to recognise signs of sensory loss and provide appropriate support. Emphasises early identification, staff education, and community outreach.
3	Source	NHS England
	Title incl. web link	A national framework for NHS – action on inclusion health NHS England » A national framework for NHS – action on inclusion health
	Summary	This framework guides NHS organisations and partners in improving healthcare access, experience, and outcomes for inclusion health groups—people who are socially excluded and face multiple disadvantages. It has five principles for action: Commit to action – Leadership and strategic partnerships. Understand needs – Improve data and insights, engage communities. Develop the workforce – Training on trauma-informed, culturally competent care. Deliver integrated services – Accessible, joined-up care with specialist outreach. Demonstrate impact – Evaluate services using both quantitative and qualitative data.
	Source	ukactive
	Title incl. web link	Everyone Can ukactive’s Everyone Can report reveals what disabled people want from the fitness and leisure sector \| ukactive
	Summary	Provides sector-wide resources to improve gym and leisure centre accessibility. Includes data insights, consumer feedback, and training materials.