From Tuesday, 18 March 2025, the deaf community in Northern Ireland will have direct access to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) through a new video relay service, making communication easier and more accessible.
How the Service Works
The SignVideo-hosted platform will provide instant access to an Irish Sign Language (ISL) or British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter. Deaf individuals can initiate a call via:
Calls will be relayed through an interpreter to the Contact Management Centre, ensuring they are handled with the same priority as all other inquiries.
Improving Accessibility for the Deaf Community
Chief Inspector Michelle Adams, from the Strategic Partnerships and Prevention Branch, highlighted the importance of ensuring full accessibility:
“As a police service for the whole community, we must be accessible to everyone, including those who are deaf. This new service allows members of the deaf community to report incidents directly, ensuring we receive the most accurate information and can provide appropriate support or begin investigations immediately.”
She also reassured users about data protection:
“SignVideo interpreters are NRCPD qualified, which takes seven years to achieve, and have at least three years of community practitioner experience. They are bound by strict confidentiality agreements and will not disclose any information from conversations.”
A Major Step Forward for Equality
Majella McAteer, Manager of the British Deaf Association (BDA) Northern Ireland, welcomed the launch:
“This is a significant step towards equality for sign language users. The video relay service allows Deaf individuals to contact the police independently, without relying on family members or friends for support. It provides a new level of confidence and autonomy for the sign language community.”
The launch of the service coincides with National Sign Language Week (March 17-23), which promotes awareness and recognition of BSL and ISL.
For more details, visit the Police Service website at www.psni.police.uk.
