Using our BSL video interpretation service
British Sign Language users can contact us via InterpretersLive!
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About InterpretersLive!
British Sign Language users can now contact us using a British Sign Language video interpreter, via the InterpretersLive! service, provided by Sign Solutions.
The service is available seven days a week between 8 am and midnight.
You can also pre-book BSL video interpreters and other types of remote communication support for any time and anywhere via any video platform.
What equipment do I need to use InterpretersLive!
A tablet, phone or computer, and internet connection, Or 3G/4G/5G mobile data signal. The service is compatible with Windows, IOS and Android platforms.
Watch this BSL video to find out more about what you need to use the service.
If you are connecting by smartphone or tablet
Download the InterpretersLive! app
- Once you are in, click on the phone icon and select ‘make a video call’.
- Connect to an InterpretersLive! interpreter and tell them you are calling 'Oxfordshire County Council'.
- The interpreter may ask you if you wish to prepare anything before starting the call. For example, is there any person or department you wish to connect to?
- You will then be connected to an adviser in British Sign Language (BSL).
You can also download the app on your computer or laptop.
If you are connecting by computer
- Connect now
- Connect to an InterpretersLive! interpreter and tell them you are calling 'Oxfordshire County Council'.
- The interpreter may ask you if you wish to connect to a person or department.
- You will then be connected to an adviser in British Sign Language (BSL).
What types of interpreters are available?
British Sign Language Interpreters from the National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People are available. You can also pre-book:
- lip speakers
- speech to text reporters
- relay interpreters
- Makaton
Watch this BSL video to find out more about what types of interpreters are available.
When is the service available?
The service is available seven days a week between 8 am and midnight.
What types of video interpretation are there?
Video relay service
Video relay service (VRS) is when the people that want to communicate are all located separately from each other. The British Sign Language user and the Interpreter communicate over a secure video call, and the interpreter relays everything that is signed to the hearing person, the conversation relays back and forth from BSL to English and English to BSL.
Video remote interpreting
Video remote interpreting (VRI) is when the Deaf and hearing parties are together, and to communicate they dial a video interpreter via a computer, tablet or phone. The video interpreter translates between the parties in real-time.
Watch this BSL video to find out about the types of video interpretation there are.
Does it cost anything to use?
InterpretersLive! is free for you to make a VRS call to any of the following organisations.
InterpretersLive! is also free to use when you visit any of the following organisations, trusts, councils and stores.
Watch this BSL video to find out more about the cost of using the service.
Is InterpretersLive! safe and secure?
All the video interpreters are qualified and NRCPD registered.
Watch this BSL video about the interpreters' qualifications and registrations.
We use Interpreterslive! which is a secure and encrypted platform to deliver our video interpreting service.
Watch this BSL video about security.
Can you pre-book InterpretersLive!?
Yes, you can pre-book NRCPD qualified British Sign Language Interpreters and other types of communication support all year round.
Watch our BSL video about our service.
Can you only access video interpreters via the app?
BSL Interpreters are available via Skype for Business or StarLeaf. However, pre-booked interpreters are available for any video platform at any time. Watch the BSL video to find out more.
Can InterpretersLive! call me back?
Yes. If you call in via the Starleaf app, we can call you back by dialling your email address. If you are not around we can leave you a BSL video message to retrieve on your return.
How can hearing people call me?
They dial 0121 285 2733 from any phone and the Interpreter will then make an onward video call to you.
Watch the BSL video about how hearing people can call me.
If the call I make is not answered can I leave a message?
Yes, if the call is not answered you can leave a voicemail for the recipient or a BSL video message for a BSL user.
Watch the BSL video about leaving a message.
Can I choose the BSL Interpreter I want?
Yes, if you want to pre-book a video or in-person interpreting session, we can book your preferred or named interpreter.
Watch the BSL video about choosing a preferred interpreter.