Here is a recent story from our Bilingual Advocacy service.
Service User L was referred to SIS by an interpreter.
L had been asking her GP for nearly a year to refer her to a specialist service for investigation of a sensitive personal issue.
She had no confidence in the GP at all, she complained that the GP didn’t listen to her or take her health problems seriously and that the GP had said she sent the referral in February when it turned out it was only sent in July 2022. L was feeling very stressed and upset.
The advocate contacted L to explain their role further, understand her needs and build rapport and trust. They agreed an action plan and the advocate was given permission to represent L in communication with the hospital.
The advocate contacted the hospital which informed her that L’s appointment was considered non-urgent so she would have to wait 63 weeks. This was devastating news.
The advocate supported L to challenge this decision and an appointment was subsequently booked for six weeks later. An interpreter was booked to attend the appointment but again L felt that the doctor hadn’t listened to her.
Another appointment was booked for later that week and this time the advocate accompanied L to represent her views and ensure they were fully considered.
L was very happy with the second appointment. The consultant explained everything in detail and she was able to get answers to all the questions.
A follow up appointment was booked for two months later and the advocate also helped to book a test that the doctor had requested.
L said:
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help. I was really frustrated and stressed by the GP, long waiting times and mistakes being made. I wasn’t getting the services I needed but having you with me meant I was listened to and got a better answer than when I tried to sort it out alone. I was so happy that I could ask all the questions I wanted to and got detailed answers I could understand.”
Note: We collaborate with advocates to write these stories but remove the names of advocates, the language used and other details to ensure confidentiality for Service Users.
P.S. Do you have a story to share? Please contact ben@sussexinterpreting.org.uk