New British Sign Language interpreter service

04 February 2020

Today sees the launch of a new interpreter service for Islanders who use British Sign Language (BSL), with the aim of making it easy for these customers to access Government services.

A third-party supplier, SignVideo, has been commissioned on a one-year trial basis to provide a real-time interpreting service. Interpreters will communicate between Government officers and customers via an online video connection.

Customers will be able to access the sign language service in several ways:

SignVideo is available via the Government website. A link to SignVideo will be displayed on every page featuring contact details. Clicking the link will connect customers to an interpreter, who will telephone the Government on the customer’s behalf and provide live interpretation through the customer’s computer.
Visitors to Customer and Local Services in La Motte Street can select SignVideo on the ticket kiosks to request access to the SignVideo interpreter service. A tablet computer will be made available with access to a real-time SignVideo interpreter.
Customers will also be able to request the SignVideo service at pre-booked outpatient and hospital home appointments.

Deputy Judy Martin, the Minister responsible for Disability said: “I’m delighted that we’re able to make it easier for customers using British Sign Language to access Government services. From renewing their passport to attending a routine hospital appointment – I hope the SignVideo service will provide customers with a better experience.”

Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, said: “Deafness and hearing loss can affect people of all ages and we recognise the difficulties that can cause. We are pleased to be introducing the SignVideo service to improve communication and aid understanding with Islanders who use British Sign Language.”

Peter Le Feuvre, Chair of the dDeaf Partnership Board, said: “I really welcome this initiative as it enables profoundly deaf people who use BSL to be sure they have understood what Government Services are telling them”.