British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter services are provided by trained professionals who are able to interpret spoken language into BSL and vice versa. These services are typically used by individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and who use BSL as their primary mode of communication.
You may need an interpreter service if you have an employee who uses sign language, have a client that uses sign language or are hosting a meeting or event where attendees have requested an interpreter.
There are a variety of organisations and agencies in the UK that provide BSL interpreter services, including:
- The National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People (NRCPD)
- The Association of Sign Language Interpreters (ASLI)
- The British Deaf Association (BDA)
BSL interpreter services can be used in a variety of settings, including education, employment, healthcare, legal proceedings, and social services. These services are typically provided on a fee-for-service basis and may be covered by insurance or other funding sources.
It’s important to note that BSL interpreter services should be used by individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing and who use BSL as their primary mode of communication.
For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing but who use a different mode of communication, such as written language or oral communication, other forms of support may be more appropriate.
