Multi-lingual online and DVD guide to NHS services

A new national DVD, with voiceovers in 17 languages, plus a website, has been produced to help people better understand how the NHS works and get the services they need.

Produced for the NHS in Scotland by Health Rights Information Scotland, with funding from the Scottish Government, the DVD is aimed at anyone who needs information about how to use the NHS in a simple accessible format. It will be particularly useful for people who are new to Scotland, for people whose first language is not English and for those with low literacy. The soundtrack is available in 17 languages, including British Sign Language.

The DVD shows people what NHS services in Scotland really look like - showing staff working in different settings. The films make use of case studies, showing real people making appointments, visiting an out of hours centre, or going to the dentist. This combination of using actual NHS settings and 'real' people helps to make the NHS more approachable, and aims to give people confidence to approach the services they need. The DVD explains what to do if someone needs an interpreter, and encourages people to ask questions.

The website address is www.howtousethenhs.com and contains all the DVDs in 17 languaegs and these can also be downloaded in different formats. You can also request a free copy of the DVD at the website or by phoning the NHS helpline on 0800 22 44 88.