Health literacy is important because it helps people understand health information, make informed decisions, and manage their health effectively. When people struggle to understand health advice or services, they are more likely to experience poor health outcomes. This is especially true for those in disadvantaged communities, where low health literacy is more common.
Health inequalities arise when certain groups have worse health than others, often due to social, economic, or environmental disadvantages. Low health literacy contributes to these inequalities by limiting people’s ability to access care, follow treatments, and engage in healthy behaviours. Improving health literacy can empower individuals, reduce unnecessary healthcare use, and help close the gap in health outcomes between different groups.
Health literacy | NHS content guide
The NHS explains what health literacy is, why many adults struggle with it, and how clearer communication can help people better understand and use health information.
Health literacy in Bolton case studies
Bournemouth University communicates health literacy using plain language, and evidence-based statistics through simple definitions, statistics, and animation.
Health literacy within the NHS
This short video explores what health literacy is, why it matters, and how straightforward tools can make health information easier to understand.
Dorset health literacy webinar
A simple explanation of what health literacy is and why improving people’s understanding of health information is essential for reducing health inequalities.
Health literacy: Let’s think again
Blog explaining that healthcare should be simpler and more person‑centred, placing responsibility on services to improve understanding and reduce health inequalities.
Health literacy in Scotland
NHS Scotland shares health literacy stats, lived‑experience stories, and case studies to show how making health information easier improves understanding.
The Health Literacy Place
Tools, resources, and practical techniques to help health and care organisations communicate more clearly, support person‑centred care, and reduce health inequalities.
EU health literacy interventions
This review finds limited but promising evidence that tailored health‑literacy interventions can help improve people’s skills and outcomes in EU countries.
“Health Literacy Out Loud” podcast
Podcast where experts are interviewed about why health literacy matters and how to communicate health information more clearly and effectively.
