999 British Sign Language service launched for deaf people

A NEW service has launched to allow people to make 999 calls using British Sign Language (BSL) for the first time.

The new service, 999 BSL, will allow deaf people to make emergency calls using an app or website, connecting callers with a BSL interpreter.

The system, which launched on Friday, is the first time a 999 emergency service will be available in BSL.

People who use the service will be put through to a BSL interpreter, who will then relay the conversation to a 999 operator.

It is free to use and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Gareth Thomas, Patient Experience and Community Involvement Manager at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “As a Trust, we’ve been engaging with the deaf community for many years.

“Deaf people have consistently told us they worry about accessing help in an emergency because they’re unable to make a 999 call in the traditional way.

“In fact, accessing any service through a telephone call is a real barrier.

“The introduction of 999 BSL is a huge step forward, and will allow deaf people to access emergency services in their language of choice – BSL.

“This takes us much closer to providing equity of access to all of our services for the deaf community.”

A text service for 999 already exists, though users have had to register for that prior to use.

The new sign language-based service does not require registration, meaning callers can use it as long as the app or webpage is open.

Ofcom announced telephone and broadband companies must carry the service last June, estimating it would save two lives a year.

Katie Hanson, Senior Consumer Policy Manager at Ofcom, said: “You can go for years without needing to call 999.

“But knowing you can call for help on your mobile phone is something we should all be able to rely on, and something many of us take for granted.

“Our new rules mean deaf people can now make a video call in an emergency, which will benefit everyone and save lives.”

To make a call with 999 BSL, users need to open the app or webpage, then press a red button that will connect them to an interpreter.

Visit https://999bsl.co.uk for more information and to access the service.

Editor’s Notes
For more information please call Lois Hough, Head of Communications at the Welsh Ambulance Service on 07866 887559, or email Lois.Hough@wales.nhs.uk