Information

Equality Act 2010

For a large proportion of the Deaf Community English is their 2nd or 3rd language and a British Sign Language interpreter is essential if that person is going to be able to communicate effectively. Many Deaf people do not see themselves as disabled, however under equality legislation, Deaf people must not be treated less favourably because of their deafness. Service providers have had to make reasonable adjustments to make sure their services are accessible to everyone, including people who use British Sign Language. Providing an interpreter is one way of making such provision. For further information on the Equality Act 2010 please visit the Government Equalities Office website on www.equalities.gov.uk

Speech to Text Reporter (STTR)

British Sign Language interpreters work between spoken English and British Sign Language (BSL). Hearing people and Deaf people who use BSL as their preferred first language, use BSL interpreters to facilitate communication in a variety of settings including; health, Social Services, education, legal, theatre, employment and social events. BSL interpreters should be fluent in both languages and trained to transfer the meaning of both the spoken and signed message between the participants, using their understanding of potential cultural differences. Interpreters are bound by their Code of Ethics and Conduct to ensure that they respect confidentiality and remain impartial throughout.