Easy Read Matters
Easy Read makes information easier to understand. It can help you meet the Accessible Information Standard[1].
It is also useful for:
- People with English as a second language
- Those who are stressed or time poor
- People with communication difficulties
Why Easy Read is important
- 1.5 million people in the UK have learning disabilities[2]
- 4 in 10 adults cannot understand health information[3]
- Poor understanding is linked to reduced life expectancy[4].
Making Easy Read resources
Layout
- Use a logical order – introduction, content, contact details
- Easy Read normally follows the layout shown to the left
- Keep images to the left of the page and text to the right
- Use white backgrounds
- Use a plain ‘Sans Serif’ font in 14pt or more
Language
- Plain language – check for jargon using a readability tool
- Short simple sentences – 15 words maximum
- Use active voice
- Avoid abbreviations
Images
- Use high-resolution images with each sentence
- Capture the main idea of the sentence
- Be representative of users
- Avoid busy backgrounds
Top tips
- Always test with users to ensure the words and images used convey the message.
- Use nouns instead of pronouns: “The doctor will phone your brother” not “They will phone him”.
- Easy Read should still include enough detail to enable informed decision making.
References
- https://www.england.nhs.uk/about/equality/equality-hub/patient-equalities-programme/equality-frameworks-and-information-standards/accessibleinfo/
- https://abilitynet.org.uk/factsheets/what-easy-read
- Rowlands G, Protheroe J et al, 2015. BJGP, 65(635): e379-e386. https://bjgp.org/content/65/635/e379
- Health literacy: how can we improve health information? - NIHR Evidence
Published March 2023.Review date: March 2025