British Deaf Association

Deaf people have been urged to make their views known, following the launch of a major Review of Relay Services for Deaf people by Ofcom. The Review recognises the importance of introducing Video Relay Services (VRS), giving BSL users ‘greater equivalence’.

VRS allows BSL users to communicate in Sign Language to hearing people through an interpreter, via a webcam or video phone, allowing them to communicate in their first language. By law, communications providers must provide ‘text relay’ services for disabled consumers.

However, Ofcom proposes introducing VRS on a restricted basis, which would allow BSL users to access the service for just 30 minutes per month, and only on weekdays between 9am and 5pm.

The British Deaf Association (BDA) is appalled by Ofcom’s proposal and the BDA’s Policy and Campaigns Team is currently constructing a detailed response to Ofcom.
BDA’s Chief Executive Officer, David Buxton (Deaf) commented: “What Ofcom is proposing, to allow Deaf BSL users only 30 minutes of VRS on a monthly basis is outrageous and highly unacceptable.

“This proposal would not give Deaf BSL users equality to accessible services or bring them on a par with the level of telephone communication access which hearing people have.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Deaf people to finally catch up with the hearing in terms of telecommunications. We are not seeking special treatment, we are asking for equality. Deaf sign language users should be able to call colleagues, friends and relatives in the same way that hearing people take for granted every day.

“The BDA are now preparing a strong response to these proposals and to ensure that Deaf people’s voices are heard and acted upon.”

Ofcom is encouraging Deaf people to respond to its consultation by providing a BSL video translation of the consultation on its website and inviting responses by email or through a video response. See http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/consultations/review-relay-services/BSL... to get an overview and how to respond in BSL.

The consultation runs until 20th October – this is your chance to get involved.