NHS Shared Business Services has launched the latest version of its Translation and Interpretation Services framework agreement.

The framework is designed to support the NHS and wider public sector to communicate clearly with citizens and patients with specific language and communication requirements.

The framework offers face-to-face spoken language support, British Sign Language (BSL), telephone and video interpretation, and document translation.

It offers buyers a fast, compliant way to access pre-vetted suppliers and procure solutions.

The framework agreement is designed to embrace ongoing innovation, giving suppliers the flexibility to introduce new digital solutions including AI-driven technologies, throughout its lifecycle.

Victoria Zhao, Principal Category Manager – Business Services, at NHS SBS said: “From healthcare and housing to education and emergency response, language support helps frontline teams deliver services with confidence, accuracy and respect for every individual.

"Our framework agreement gives users the flexibility to select interpreters who best meet their needs, be it based on language, dialect, cultural understanding or sector experience.

“This choice ensures services are tailored to the context of each interaction, whether clinical, legal or community based, supporting clearer communication, higher satisfaction and better outcomes for service users.”