Disability Sheffield
Zoom: A A A A Current Page  »  About  /  Blog  /  Blog Article

Making Phone Calls in BSL Using Apps

Are you hard of hearing or Deaf and a BSL user? Do you know that you can now make phone calls via an app on your smartphone or computer in the same way as hearing people use their phone? Using an app can connect you to the person you wish to speak to via a live video link with a qualified BSL interpreter. There are currently two companies providing this new service – SignLive and SignVideo – which is a step forward in communications technology for the deaf community.

How does it work? You simply download the SignVideo or SignLive app onto your smartphone (or computer) and connect to the service by selecting the app. . When using the apps, you will be connected to a fully qualified BSL interpreters via video. The interpreter will then contact the person and phone number you are wanting to call ( e.g. your GP, Bank, Dentist, friends or family ) and relay the conversation back to you between BSL and English, instantly and in real time.

SignLive and SignVideo can also be used at work ,for example, if you are called into an emergency meeting but can’t get hold of or book a BSL interpreter at short notice . Please note that you can apply for Access to Work to cover the cost of the calls and interpreters.

SignLive also has the added advantage of having a community directory listing all the companies that use SignLive’s services. The list includes councils, airports and NHS Trusts, who have signed up to SignLive’s online Video Relay Services so you can call them for FREE. The Community Directory also includes deaf-led businesses, who you can video-call directly through SignLive and talk to them in BSL.

If you would like to know more about using a British Sign Language interpreter via video or if you would like a demonstration of how SignVideo and SignLive works you can contact:

SignVideo on 0208 463 1120 or email ask@signvideo.co.uk

SignLive on 0330 822 0288 or email hello@signlive.co.uk

Please note that by providing information in this article Disability Sheffield is not recommending any products or services and please check costs and affordability before entering into any contract.

Share

Leave a comment

Blog Archive

Articles by Category

Articles by Tag

Articles by Date

* indicates required

Sign up to our latest news on local and national disability related issues and events

Recent Feedback    (We'd love to receive your feedback, please click here to add some)

Very good presentation, brave of the speakers to tell their stories and had a very high impact - feedback from Mate/Hate Crime presentation and video session at Safeguarding Working Together Conference
The service received was rated as:  

feedback training

Disability Sheffield is a forward-thinking, energetic organisation doing a lot of positive work in Sheffield. I have no doubt they will continue to do so for a long time to come.
The service received was rated as:  

Ruth

When I moved to Sheffield nearly five years ago it was my "go to" organisation. I expect it to stay that way. All the staff and volunteers seem to pull out little gems of effort that disabled people like me couldn't do without. Professionally and personally - I love em :)
The service received was rated as:  

Andrew Crooks

A fantastic presentation thought provoking and good questions from the floor around promoting this film/message to the general public not just professionals.
The service received was rated as:  

training feedback