Table 1 Initial programme theory

Women who do not speak English and those who have difficulties communicating (learning or physical disabilities).

1) Uncomplicated telephone access to interpreter services, or online provision to register with services, arrange or reschedule appointments, organise travel to appointments and to access advice from a healthcare professional.

2) Access to properly translated, language appropriate materials.

3) Choice of interpreter, for example a female, an anonymous, or a trusted interpreter.

4) Access to interpretation services throughout antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal period, including emergency admissions.

Earlier access to services, avoidance of denial of service, improved safety, flexibility, equity in information received, increased confidence in help seeking and self-disclosure.