Bi-lingual health advocacy and translations
Bilingual advocacy/interpretation service is for patients who do not speak English and need support when they have a health appointment, providing advice, information and support to help people access and use health services. Further, it educates health services about cultural norms so they can provide care and treatment in a culturally sensitive way.
Bilingual health advocates or interpreters are provided where possible.
Telephone interpreting is available in the hospital and at GP practices to help with communication with health care professionals.
What is the difference between advocates and interpreters?
An interpreter will interpret for the patient and the health professional to ensure that they can both understand and communicate with each other using a common language.
An advocate will also interpret, and in addition, will support patients ensuring they have the knowledge, understanding and confidence needed to make informed decisions and to get the care and services they need. They will also refer them to other organisations that can assist them.
There is an open referral system which means patients, carers and health workers can refer to the service.
Please make referrals using the contact details for the service.
Will I have to pay for this service?
Individuals do not have to pay for the service. However, the hospital pays for bilingual health advocates' and an interpreter's time, so cancellations must be notified at least 48 hours in advance.
What if you can't help me?
If the service can't provide the help you need, they can advise about other services that can help.
However please note; this is a health service and can not provide benefits, housing, environmental health, social services or immigration advice.
Hospital Advocacy Service
46/48 Clifden Road,
Homerton Hospital
Homerton Row
London E9 6SR
Phone: 020 8510 7179
email: huh-tr.advocacy.hospitalrequests@nhs.net
Community Advocacy Service (GP practices and community health services)
Email: huh-tr.advocacy.communityrequests@nhs.net
Tel: 020 7683 4024