WEST Midlands Police want deaf and hard of hearing people to know they are ‘here to help anyone who needs them’ as part of National Deaf Awareness Week.
The awareness week, organised by National Deaf Children’s Society, which runs from May 1 to 7 has prompted the regions police to offer advice and guidance on alternative ways of reporting crime for those who are unable to use the traditional methods of contacting authorities.
West Midlands Police want deaf and hard of hearing people to be aware of 999 BSL, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and allows people to contact all emergency services via video call with BSL interpreters.
Alternatively, 999 Text Relay is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and allows people to contact all emergency services after a simple text registration process.
In non-emergency situations, the deaf and hard of hearing can still contact a BSL interpreter or use the accessibility text phone line at 18001 101.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “People with hearing loss or deafness can sometimes find it difficult to access police support and services when they need to.
“This can leave them feeling isolated and vulnerable when they need our help.
“The police are here to help everyone who needs us.
“Nobody should feel prevented from contacting the police.
“We want deaf people to know what help is available to them either in an emergency or a non-emergency. “
National Deaf Awareness week, which focuses on the theme of deaf inclusion, highlights how hearing loss impacts daily life and how others can help support deaf people in an effort to understand how being deaf brings unique challenges that not everyone will experience.
Visit: www.999bsl.co.uk to contact emergency services via a BSL interpreter.
Text REGISTER to 999 to sign up to the Text Relay service.
Visit: https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/contact-us and follow the SignVideo link to chat with a BSL interpreter in a non-emergency situation.
