Walsall mums-to-be who do not speak English, will experience better communication thanks to a new system.

Wordskii Connect is now live in the Antenatal Clinic based at Walsall Manor Hospital.

The system is designed to enable a non-English speaking patient to connect to a main helpline number with the help of a professional interpreter. It allows patients to make inbound calls, in their own language direct.

The way the system works is by using an alternative contact number, which links the patient with an interpreter prior to them speaking with the Antenatal Team. This allows the patients – and their families –  to directly discuss any queries or concerns they have with healthcare staff in a live situation.

Bradley Cox, Patient Relations Manager said: “We are really happy to be able to provide this service to patients who do not speak English as we are an inclusive Trust and believe every person deserves to have the best experience possible when under our care. It is so important that our patients feel heard and communicated with well as this can make all the difference in giving the right support and advice and making service users feel safe and empowered.

“This also benefits our staff as the system helps them communicate with patients and relatives effectively and gives them access to a fully trained interpreter who speaks the patient’s preferred language.”

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust offer several forms of translation under the “Wordskii” branding:

• Wordskii – telephone/face-to-face interpreting. Written document translation services also offered.
• Wordskii Wow pads – video interpreting
• Wordskii connect – inbound call handling interpreting

All translation services are provided by Word 360.

Details on how to access the system are now included in appointment letters. Patients can also access further information via this website: https://www.walsallhealthcare.nhs.uk/our-services/maternity/wordskii-interpreter-services/wordskii-connect/