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23 January 2019

Hertfordshire County Council Launches British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service

Hertfordshire County Council has appointed SignVideo to provide a British Sign Language (BSL) Video Relay Service for deaf residents.

The service allows deaf people to communicate with hearing people using a smartphone, tablet or computer via a BSL interpreter in real time, enabling users to have equal access to information and advice through our Customer Service Centre.

The county council recognises that everyone is different and is committed to exploring ways to improve our information resources to reach all Hertfordshire residents.

Cllr Richard Roberts, Cabinet member for Adult Care and Health, said: “We are always looking for ways to enable our residents to get on with life, this project will do just that.

“We are committed to ensuring that deaf people in the county are able to access a qualified BSL interpreter quickly and when they need it.

“This service will mean that deaf people can get the help they need, when they need it and in a way they want it.”

SignVideo Relay Service gives BSL users independence, by allowing them to make telephone calls confidently to hearing people through fully qualified BSL interpreters.

BSL remote video interpreting service is available via a free link on our website www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/contact

Notes to editors

Hertfordshire County Council has worked with SignVideo to produce a short film promoting the service.

SignVideo is a user led organisation striving to deliver best possible service to deaf people promoting communication equality. Their service is safe, secure and uses qualified BSL interpreters. SignVideo has been providing this service on behalf of HCC since 2015 and was awarded a new contract in August 2018.

SignVideo says that their mission is to empower deaf citizens by embracing the latest developments in new technology to tackle barriers to social inclusion.

For more information about this release please contact james.hind@hertfordshire.gov.uk