A film made by Norfolk patients with learning difficulties will be premiered at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital on 27th January 2009.
The new 10-minute information film was produced by local film maker Michelle Savage and has been backed by the local NHS and voluntary groups. It aims to help people overcome their fears and concerns when coming to hospital. The film is also being used as a training aid for hospital staff to help them better understand people’s needs.
The film is part of a three-year programme of work at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, making it easier for patients with learning difficulties to use hospital services.
Carol Edwards, Deputy Director of Nursing and Education, says: “We want to create a hospital for all people regardless of their abilities. Our learning difficulty champions are always looking at ways to improve the service for patients. A good example would be using pictures instead of words on door signs to help people find their way around a ward or unit.
“We hope this film will reinforce all the learning that has taken place over the last three years and make a difference to patients who may be worried about coming into hospital.”
Local advocacy organisations ‘People First’ and ‘About with Friends’ were involved in the making of the film, together with the Norfolk Learning Disability Service. The project was funded through a grant from the Learning Disabilities Development Fund and the Friends of the Norwich Hospitals.
