2 June 2009

Welsh Language in Healthcare Awards – Success for Gwynedd

Bilingual initiatives by Gwynedd Council and their partners in the health sector have been recognised at a special awards ceremony which aims to improve the Welsh language provision within healthcare for patients and members of the public in general.

As part of this year’s “The Welsh Language in Healthcare Conference”, an innovative Gwynedd initiative – which offers Welsh audio books in the field of mental health – won the top prize fir bilingual provision in the field of primary care. The books were provided as part of the ‘Books on Prescription’ scheme which is arranged locally by the Gwynedd Local Health Board and Gwynedd Council Libraries Service.

As part of this unique initiative, four titles in the field of mental health were translated into the Welsh language with the support of the Welsh Society of Principal Librarians, North Wales Society for the Blind and financial support from the Welsh Assembly Government. The titles are now available from libraries throughout Wales.

Gwynedd Council Principal Librarian, Hywel James said:

“We are delighted that this initiative has been recognised on a national level – it is proof that this is the first scheme of its kind to be undertaken in Wales.

“Our aim was to fill an important gap in the mental health provision for the benefit of those who suffer from these particular disorders. It is an excellent example of different agencies working together for the benefit of the public.”

Dr Nia Owain Huws from Caernarfon who promoted the use of the ‘Books on Prescription’ scheme added:

“The audio books were prepared at the request of GPs to make the books accessible for those who may have visual impairments or those who prefer to listen to a book. We hope that a number of people will benefit from reading or listening to these books which will complement the support of their doctor.”

Also successful in the Welsh Language in Healthcare Awards was the Gwynedd Specialist Children's Services who came out on top for the excellent work which is provided in cooperation between the North West Wales NHS Trust and Gwynedd Council. They were applauded for the pioneering service provided by offering bilingual services for children throughout the county.

The Gwynedd Specialist Children's Services is a multi-agency service for disabled children and young people and children who are ill which requires a co-ordinated service from the Health Trust and various Gwynedd Council departments.

PHOTOGRAPH:

1 - Gwenith Price from the Welsh Language Board, Ceri Isaac from the Gwynedd Local Health Board and Hywel James, Gwynedd Council Principal Librarian