We have recently launched our very own Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) and Video Relay Service (VRS). This blog will take you through some of the ways you can utilise this cost-effective and easy to use service to improve access for your Deaf service users.
1. Telephone access for Deaf people
By integrating VRS into your business you can allow Deaf people easy contact with your organisation. Many Deaf individuals do not use English as their first language and therefore may struggle with text-based communications. VRS allows Deaf individuals who are not in the same place as the person they need to talk to, to call via a fully qualified British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter who will relay the conversation. Not only does integrating this service improve access, it can help you on the way to becoming a Disability Confident employer.
2. Medical consultations
It has become evident that Deaf individuals must often rely on family members to relay sensitive information about their medical needs. VRI can help doctors’ surgeries and hospitals to easily overcome this barrier and allow a Deaf person a confidential 1-to-1 conversation with a medical professional. We provide fully qualified BSL interpreters on-demand, cutting costs and providing access whenever it is needed – all that is required is a device with an internet connection and microphone.
3. Short workplace meetings
If you have a Deaf employee, you may already be using one of our CECs or BSL interpreters to help them with communication in the workplace. For shorter meetings, VRI may be the most appropriate and efficient way to access communication support. By using VRI for meetings of less than 30 minutes you can save on Access to Work costs by avoiding travel costs and minimum booking fees, as well as being able to include your Deaf employees in meetings whenever you need to without having to book the BSL interpreter in advance.
4. Emergency situations
In an emergency, a Deaf person may need instant access to a BSL interpreter. There are many situations where this may be the case; A&E, housing issues as well as social care and many more. It is crucial that in high stress situations like these they have access to the communication they need. VRI can help to ensure effective communication to resolve the situation without delay, and with the least amount of stress for the Deaf individual.
5. Reception desks
For client-facing organisations that welcome visitors and clients on a regular basis it is always good practice to have provisions in place for any Deaf clients that are visiting you. Not only does this present your organisation as an inclusive environment, but it can help Deaf people visiting you feel more welcome and less anxious. By making reception staff aware of this software and it’s uses you can ensure that any Deaf person entering your organisation can enter with confidence.
These are five of many uses for this service. If you would like some more information on how you can make VRI and VRS work within your business, you can read more here, or get in touch with the team and we will be more than happy to help.
