People and communities
Walsall Council launches British Sign Language video interpreter service
Published on
Walsall Council has launched a new service to make it easier for d/Deaf people to access services.
People in Walsall can now access an on-demand video British Sign Language (BSL) service, in which an interpreter will translate a conversation between council staff and the caller.
During a call, an interpreter can communicate with a staff member from any of the council’s service areas on the phone, and sign with the BSL user on a live video call.
The service, provided by InterpretersLive, can be accessed via the council’s website or via the InterpretersLive directory. A link to the service will be available on the contact card of all council service webpages shortly.
“ Councillor Amandeep Garcha, Portfolio Holder for Resident Access and Housing Support, said, “It is so important to have provision that helps people access council services in a way that works for them.
This service will help us provide better customer service for our d/Deaf residents and remove the requirement for them to rely on other people to call the council on their behalf.
“The service can also be initiated by any member of staff at the council, allowing for use of the system for in person conversations. “
The launch of this service improves accessibility and inclusivity for d/Deaf customers, ensuring services are accessible to everyone.
The service can be accessed directly via https://connect.interpreterslive.co.uk/vrs?ilc=WalsallCouncil.
Ends
