POLICE have launched a new online video sign language service making it easier for Deaf callers to report a crime.
The service is provided by SignVideo and connects anyone who is Deaf or hard of hearing to a fully qualified British Sign Language interpreter who will make the call to a 101 advisor on their behalf relaying the call to the hearing agent.
Lillie Abbott, West Midlands Police force’s diversity and inclusion co-ordinator, said: “I know the challenges deaf people can face when trying to contact us and how they can often feel alone at their most vulnerable time.
“We wanted to address this issue and ensure we were more accessible for anybody with hearing loss.
“This simple online interpreting system is now available on our website. It’s a small thing that will make a big difference to a lot of people.”
https://youtu.be/-cVK0n7BRBY
To report all non-urgent crimes via the new service either download the SignVideo app to your device or visit: https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/contact-us
