Sign Translate

On-Line BSL Interpreting

Thank you to everyone who completed our recent online survey about On-Line Interpreting. The results showed overwhelming support for On-Line Interpreting and our approach of partnering with regional organisations to provide the On-Line Interpreters.


Medical staff:
To Book an On-Line BSL Interpreting Session CLICK HERE

 

What Is On-Line BSL Interpreting For?

Some situations require the flexibility of a face-to-face British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter, but there are often long lead times to obtain their services. When such a situation arises at short notice, medical staff and the Deaf patient can use SignTranslate's On-Line BSL Interpreting Service to make a video call to a fully qualified BSL interpreter using a standard webcam. No specialist equipment is needed and an interpreter can be available in minutes.

SignTranslate's platform allows distribution of On-Line BSL Interpreting sessions to a bank of interpreting agencies all over the UK. This means that local interpreters will normally be on-line, which is reassuring for the Deaf person. In an emergency any available on-line interpreter can deal with the call, ensuring that the patient's needs can be cared for quickly by medical staff.

How Does It Work?On-Line Interpreting
Using a webcam with a PC or laptop, through the SignTranslate portal, you can have a 'video phone-call' with a BSL interpreter.

On-demand
No delays, no travel expenses.

Inexpensive
Charged per minute, with a 10 minute minimum.

Pay-as-you-go
No set-up fees, no monthly charge, only pay for the time you use.

Local Interpreters
Interpreters are provided by our regional partners, and are fully qualified with at least 3 years experience. Local interpreters understand the regional variations in British Sign Language. However for personal or embarrassing situations, the Deaf patient can ask to use a non-local interpreter just as easily, and be confident of being clearly understood.

How Much Does It Cost?
Sign Language users: There is no charge to use On-Line BSL Interpreting as a patient. The Doctor pays for using the service.

Service Providers: The price is very competitive and is charged per minute, so you only pay for the time you use, subject to a minimum call time of 10 minutes. You can pay monthly for the time you use, or you can prepay for blocks of minutes up front.

For current pricing information please contact us.

What Do I Need To Use It?
You do not need any specialist equipment, just

  • A PC or laptop
  • A web browser (Internet Explorer)
  • A broadband internet connection (at least 1Mb)
  • A webcam (we have found that the Microsoft Lifecam VX1000 and similar webcams are inexpensive and work well)

How Can I Activate On-line Interpreting?

If you are already using SignTranslate, simply click on the yellow "Interpreter Now" button and follow the simple instructions. You will need a webcam.

If you are not currently using SignTranslate please contact us.