NOTICE: While Parliament is dissolved ahead of the General Election, APPGs will cease all activity - this event will therefore be postponed.

Policy Connect is delighted to host this parliamentary roundtable in partnership with the University of Surrey, who are conducting a National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) funded research project into Improving uptake, experience and implementation of interpreting services in primary care.

The UK has a growing and aging population for whom English is not their first language. Interpreters play a crucial role in facilitating communication between patients and doctors who do not share the same language, ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. This helps mitigate any disadvantages faced by individuals who struggle to communicate effectively with their doctors due to language barriers. Regrettably, there is evidence suggesting that poor English proficiency is associated with poorer patient outcomes and health inequalities.

General Practitioners (GPs) often serve as the initial point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services. Therefore, the availability of high-quality interpreting services is essential to ensure that everyone receives equitable care. Despite their importance, these services are frequently underutilised, and the reasons for this are unclear. This NIHR funded research study explored the uptake and experience of professional interpreting services in primary care (general practice) among South Asian communities in England.

This parliamentary session chaired by Baroness Watkins of Tavistock will engage with, relevant stakeholders and policymakers to present findings and recommendations and share updated guidance and encourage dialogue about the delivery of interpreting services in primary care.

We will be hearing a Keynote speech from Preet Kaur Gill MP- Shadow Minister for Primary Care and Public Health.

Further speakers to be announced soon.

For more information about this event please contact: jasmin.adebisi [at] policyconnect.org.uk