The trust is working with its interpreting provider, Dals, to introduce the new service, which allows staff to request and access a virtual interpreter within minutes.

Matt Powls, chief operating officer at PHU, said: ‘Clear communication is fundamental to safe, compassionate and effective care. This new service means our patients no longer have to wait hours or days to be understood and to understand what is happening to them.

‘Being able to access a professional interpreter within minutes is a significant step forward for patient experience, safety and equality, and we are proud to be working with Dals to deliver this.'

The service also supports staff by enabling quicker decision-making and reducing the stress and uncertainty caused by communication barriers.

Carlota Martínez Garrofé, regional account manager at Dals, said: ‘We are delighted to be working with PHU on this important new service. Video-on-demand interpreting combines speed, flexibility and quality, ensuring patients receive the right support at the right time.

‘This approach can make a real difference in urgent and routine care settings, and we're pleased to help the trust improve access and equity for its diverse communities.'

The introduction of video-on-demand interpreting supports the trust's commitment to inclusive, patient-centred care and to reducing health inequalities across the communities it serves.