Slang initiatives in Wales and Scotland

NHS chiefs in the Lothians (near Edinburgh) are considering texting patients, and using slang, in an attempt to get more of them to attend hospital appointments, and read healthy-lifestyle-related messages. Over 20% of the population of the area are functionally illiterate and may be missing out on important information and messages. Research has shown that some people have difficulty understanding the correspondence sent to them, and difficulty understanding what is on offer across the region's health services. There is a link between functional illiteracy and poor health.

 

Here is that story.

 

Meanwhile, in Newport, South Wales, the university is hoping to make students from outside the region feel more welcome and at home by issuing a mobile phone app translating Newport slang.

 

Here's a report on that story.