British Sign Language Interpreting

Around 70,000 deaf and hearing impaired people in the UK use British Sign Language (BSL). It is also recognised as a language by the UK Government and professional linguists alike.

We work with experienced and talented BSL interpreters, all of whom have a unique set of skills. They interpret what is being said into corresponding gestures, or signs, and regularly have to find different vocabulary and sentence structures to express the same meaning.

Tips for working with BSL interpreters

1. Make sure that only one person speaks at a time – BSL interpreters cannot sign for two people at once!

2. Bear in mind that BSL interpreting is demanding – physically as well as mentally. If you require BSL interpreting for more than two hours, you will need two interpreters.

3. Be aware that you need to choose the most appropriate form of sign language interpreting according to your specific requirements. You can choose from:
        • Lip speakers
        • Sign language interpreters
        • Deaf-blind or Usher Syndrome interpreters
        • Deaf Relay interpreters (sometimes called intermediary interpreters)

Please note that we can also translate BSL or spoken word documents into other formats, such as DVD and audio formats.

For further information about our BSL interpreting service, please call +44(0) 1 422 253353 or email info@translateuk.co.uk.