Lichfield District Council is proud to provide British Sign Language users the ability to access support and advice with the assistance of SignLive, an innovative interpretation service.
SignLive brings BSL users and professional BSL interpreters together via video link, free of charge in office hours.
The interpreter signs with the BSL user, communicates with the council staff member and then signs the response back.
The collaboration improves accessibility and inclusivity for deaf customers who use British Sign Language in Lichfield District.
Accessing SignLive is quick and straightforward. Customers can download the SignLive app from the App Store or Google Play, or access it through the web browser, find Lichfield District Council in the community directory and, for initial use, complete a registration process to secure their account and facilitate call-backs, if necessary.
In addition to the online platform there is an iPad at District Council House’s reception in Frog Lane where customers who visit in person can be connected to an online BSL interpreter for communication with council staff. They simply indicate to the member of staff at reception that they wish to use SignLive.
All SignLive interpreters are highly qualified, possessing a minimum of five years of interpreting experience. They are also registered with the National Register of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People (NRCPD) and hold valid DBS/PVG licenses, ensuring the utmost professionalism and confidentiality.
Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Engagement, Councillor Richard Cox, said:
“We are pleased to be improving accessibility and inclusivity for British Sign Language users living in our community. By partnering with SignLive, we are making our services more accessible to everyone including deaf customers who use BSL.”
For more information visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/signlive