App for sign language users to access interpreters launched

Deaf people and those who use British Sign Language (BSL) will be able to access interpreters more easily through a new mobile app launched today. 

The app, which was developed by Deaf Action and Burrotech through the Scottish Government’s CivTech programme, will enable deaf people to book BSL interpreters in just a few simple steps. The system is designed to reduce the often complex process of securing an interpreter for the estimated 87,000 deaf BSL users who need one to use essential services like the NHS. 

“This app builds on our commitment to make Scotland a more inclusive place for deaf people,” said Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes. “It also represents exactly the kind of innovation we want to see through our CivTech programme - technology that transforms lives and removes barriers.” 

Launched in 2016, CivTech is a Scottish Government-run accelerator for digital public services. Around 100 businesses have progressed through the Accelerator since its launch, with just over £25m of public sector funding provided directly through CivTech contracts and an additional £125m in private investment.  

Richard MacQueen, who was born deaf and uses BSL as his primary form of communication, was one of the first people to trial the app. MacQueen had faced significant challenges when booking interpreters in the past, resulting in a mix-up with test results that left him afraid he had contracted HIV. 

"When the results came back, there was no interpreter to pass them on,” said MacQueen. “They sent a nurse who was learning very basic signs. She signed 'HIV' and put her thumb up. I was completely confused. Does that mean it's positive? Is this a good thing? What does this mean?" 

MacQueen says that this is a common scenario for thousands of BSL users across the UK, where this confused scene plays out at important events due to a lack of available interpreters. 

Data from a review published by the Royal National Institute for Deaf People shows that there are around 1,500 registered BSL interpreters in the UK, equating to roughly one interpreter for every 60 deaf BSL users. 

"I remember the first time I downloaded the beta version of the app,” said MacQueen. “I had a meeting the next week, so I was trying to get an interpreter booked. All the interpreters' names came up with their availability. I clicked on it, and that was it done. I was so shocked.”