Professional British Sign Language interpreting from 121 Captions

British Sign Language is the preferred language for tens of thousands of people across the UK.

It’s a language in its own right, giving deaf and hard of hearing people freedom and independence in an already difficult world.

What is British Sign Language?

British Sign Language, or BSL as it is shortened to, is just like any other language except it’s 100% visual.

BSL is a richly expressive language, with distinctive grammar using handshapes, facial expressions, gestures and body language to convey meaning.

It’s important to point out that Sign Language is not an interpretation of a spoken language; it’s a language in its own right.

It’s surprising to many people to discover there is more than one type of Sign Language. Just like spoken languages, most countries have their own versions, and even within the UK there are regional dialects.

These regional differences come from the residential schools for the deaf in the 19th and 20th Centuries, where children and teachers would have their own unique signs.

These children then grew up in that area, and so regions took on their own “accents”.

Again, just like spoken regional dialects, people can still understand one another despite the subtle differences.

Why should you use British Sign Language interpreting?

By using British Sign Language interpreting for your business, you are first and foremost making a statement, declaring your commitment to disability access and equality for all.

From a business point of view, you’re also opening the door to more clients. A surprising percentage of people in the UK have difficulty with their hearing, and many feel excluded in a professional setting.

Indeed, there are many examples of specific situations where British Sign Language interpreting is particularly important.

Many deaf people need an interpreter during an emergency situation, such as A&E, issues with children, or medical problems.

These situations tend to already be highly stressful, and not being able to communicate compounds the problem.

Many deaf people rely on family members during a medical consultation, but British Sign Language interpreting in hospitals and GP surgeries can easily overcome this obstacle, allowing a deaf person to have a confidential 1-to-1 meeting with their doctor.

Call us for professional British Sign Language interpreting

121 Captions is owned and run by deaf people who know first-hand the ease of access, and benefits to business, that proper British Sign Language interpreting can provide.

Founder and director, Tina Lannin discovered how hard it was to get good communication support while at university and during her career, and so founded 121 Captions with the aim of making life easier for deaf and hard of hearing people.

Our core team at 121 Captions not only includes sign language interpreters, but court reporters and captioners, professional lip readers, certified lipreading teachers, and deaf awareness trainers.

If you would like to know more about British Sign Language interpreting, or any of the other services we offer, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.