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| TOPIC: COMMUNICATION |
| Communicating with non-English speakers |
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| In some communities, there are a large proportion of patients for whom English is not their first language. This can cause communication barriers that are particularly difficult to overcome during consultations on sexual health. |
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| Using an interpretation service, either face-to-face or telephone based, may be necessary, but it is important to be aware of the sensitive nature of sexual health consultations. Interpreters should be appropriately trained and must be aware of their duty of confidentiality. When conducting an interview using an interpreter, health providers should still address their questions directly at the patient, should maintain eye contact, and be alert to body language. |
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| Sexual health materials such as posters or leaflets should be made available in all languages relevant to the local community. |
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| Other related topic areas: Understanding attitudes to sexual health |
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