Interpreting Matters Ltd

Update on British Sign Language (BSL) Policy in Wales! Interpreting Matters is pleased to share the latest BSL policy update from Jane Hutt, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice. This marks a significant step forward for the Deaf BSL community in Wales! Highlights include: 🔸 Recognition of BSL as part of Wales' diverse linguistic heritage. 🔸 The upcoming formation of a BSL Stakeholder Group to shape policy with lived experiences. 🔸 Development of a BSL Route-Map to improve outcomes for Deaf BSL signers. 🔸 A continued commitment to breaking down language barriers and promoting inclusivity. These initiatives aim to ensure equal access to information and services for Deaf BSL signers, fostering a fairer, more inclusive Wales. Read the full statement and learn about these positive changes: https://lnkd.in/efcMhCrN https://lnkd.in/d_6vA_d7 #BSL #Inclusion #Equality #DeafCommunity #InterpretingMatters

Understanding Lipspeakers: Enhancing Communication Through Lipreading… At Interpreting Matters, we are dedicated to breaking down communication barriers for the deaf and hard of hearing community. One of the essential services we provide is professional lipspeaking. 🔹 What is a Lipspeaker? A lipspeaker is a trained professional used by people who are deaf and prefer to communicate through lipreading and speech. They produce the shape of words clearly, maintaining the natural flow, rhythm, and phrasing of speech. Lipspeakers also use natural gestures and facial expressions to help individuals follow what's being said. Importantly, they repeat spoken words without using their voice, enabling others to read their lips easily. These professionals use a combination of clear lip movements and visual cues to facilitate lipreading. They are ideal for those who prefer visual communication without the need for written text. 🔹 Professional Standards and Confidentiality: Our lipspeakers are regulated by the National Registers of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind People (NRCPD). This means they adhere to strict professional standards, including maintaining confidentiality and remaining completely impartial. You can trust that our professionals will provide reliable and ethical communication support. 🔹 Why Choose a Lipspeaker? Enhanced Understanding: Lipspeakers make it easier for individuals who rely on lipreading to engage in conversations across various settings - be it meetings, conferences, or social events. 🔹 Natural Communication: By using facial expressions and natural gestures, lipspeakers offer a more organic and comfortable communication experience. 🔹 Tailored Support: Our lipspeakers adapt their methods to suit individual needs, ensuring effective communication for everyone involved. Need to Book a Lipspeaker? Get in Touch Today! https://lnkd.in/d6zsp5XB #Lipspeaking #CommunicationMatters #DeafCommunity #InclusiveCommunication #InterpretingMatters

Breaking Barriers: Deaf Professionals in TV & Film 🎭 A recent report from the Sir Lenny Henry Centre for Media Diversity highlights the systemic challenges faced by Deaf professionals in the UK’s film, television, and media industries. Shockingly, 98% of participants reported discrimination in their careers. Key findings and recommendations: 🔸 A database of sign language interpreters for media. 🔸 More apprenticeships for Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. 🔸 Reviews of pay disparities between Deaf and hearing workers. 🔸 Advocacy for a dedicated BSL television channel to provide opportunities and foster diversity. Erika Jones, a Deaf broadcaster and lead researcher, emphasises the urgent need for systemic change: “This is not about a lack of talent or passion; it’s about removing barriers that prevent Deaf voices from being heard.” This eye-opening report calls for the industry to move beyond words and commit to tangible action to create an inclusive, UNMUTED industry where everyone’s voice counts. Read the full article: https://lnkd.in/e2jR7bEP #InterpretingMatters #DeafInMedia #MediaDiversity #DeafProfessionals #UnmutedVoices

Helpful Information when booking an Interpreter. Booking a Sign Language Interpreter can be a daunting process, so we've put together some pointers to help you. From preparation material, directions to the venue, lighting, acoustics, pace and more. Find them on our website: https://lnkd.in/drX8Naap #InterpretingMatters #Interpreter #HelpfulInformation #1nt #BSL

Understanding Speech-to-Text Reporters (STTRs): Real-Time Transcription for Enhanced Communication. At Interpreting Matters, our mission is to make communication accessible for everyone. One of the vital services we offer is Speech-to-Text Reporting (STTR), which plays a crucial role in assisting deaf individuals and those with hearing loss. 🔸 What is a Speech-to-Text Reporter (STTR)? An STTR is a trained professional who provides a real-time transcription of spoken language into written text using specialised software and techniques like palantype or stenography. This service allows individuals who are deaf or have hearing loss to access audio information in real time via a laptop or large screen. 🔸 How Does Speech-to-Text Reporting Work? Specialised Equipment: STTRs use a special keyboard to type every word spoken phonetically—that is, how the word sounds rather than how it's spelled. Real-Time Conversion: The phonetic input is instantly converted back into English text, which appears on a computer or projected screen. High Accuracy: The resulting text is usually about 95% accurate. Any remaining words are spelled roughly how they sound. 🔸 Benefits of Using an STTR Full Participation: Whether attending meetings, conferences, or events, an STTR provides a real-time transcription of what's being said, enabling full participation. Verbatim Reporting: The reporter types a word-for-word account of the conversation, ensuring no details are missed. Versatile Display Options: For larger events, the transcription can be projected onto big screens or multiple smaller screens around the room for easy viewing. 🔸 Is STTR Right for You? Speech-to-Text Reporting is ideal for individuals who are comfortable reading English at high speed, often for extended periods. It's a valuable resource for those who prefer reading text over other forms of communication support. 🔸 Why Choose Interpreting Matters for STTR Services? Professional Expertise: Our STTRs are highly trained professionals skilled in providing accurate and efficient real-time transcription. Tailored Solutions: We adapt our services to meet your specific needs, whether it's a small meeting or a large conference. Need to Book an STTR? Get in Touch Today! https://lnkd.in/d6zsp5XB #InterpretingMatters #STTR #SpeechToTextReporters #LanguageServiceProfessionals

Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2025 - With BSL Interpreted Performances! Calling all dance lovers! Whether you're a Strictly fan or new to the glitz and glamour, the 2025 tour is unmissable! BSL INTERPRETED PERFORMANCES! Every performance will feature a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter displayed on TWO large screens, so you can book tickets and sit almost anywhere in the arena to enjoy the magic with your loved ones. From Motsi Mabuse's sensational debut to Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, Craig Revel Horwood, and hosted by Janette Manrara - this is a dazzling line-up you won’t want to miss! Expect jaw-dropping routines, stunning costumes, live music, and electrifying entertainment for the whole family. Touring arenas across the UK this January and February 2025. Get ready to shine, sparkle, and forget those winter blues! Book your tickets now and be part of the Strictly magic: https://lnkd.in/eTvyxgdb #StrictlyLive2025 #BSLInterpreted #GlitzAndGlamour #DanceTheNightAway

Understanding Deafblindness: Bridging the Communication Gap Deafblindness, also known as dual sensory impairment or multi-sensory impairment, affects individuals with both hearing and vision loss. This condition can be congenital (present from birth) or acquired later in life. Each person's experience with deafblindness is unique, and so are their communication needs. Communication Methods for Deafblind Individuals How deafblind people communicate depends on their residual sight and hearing. Here are some of the methods used: 🔸 Deafblind Manual Alphabet (Fingerspelling): This involves spelling out words on someone's hand using British Sign Language (BSL). It's a tactile way of communicating that allows for direct interaction. 🔸 Block Alphabet: A person uses the tip of their forefinger to spell out each word in English block capitals on the receiver's palm. This method is often used when communicating with those unfamiliar with the deafblind manual alphabet.  🔸 Hands-On Signing: For Deaf people who use British Sign Language to communicate and later experience sight loss, hands-on signing allows them to continue using sign language by touching the hands of the person signing to follow their movements.  🔸 Visual Frame Signing: When a deafblind person has a limited field of vision, sign language can be adapted to their visual needs. Signs are made within a smaller visual frame to ensure they are visible. A Deafblind interpreter is a highly trained professional who provides essential communication support for individuals with both hearing and vision loss. They use various methods to facilitate communication, such as tactile sign language, close vision interpreting, visual frame signing, and haptic communication. Communication methods are highly individualised to meet each person's specific needs. At Interpreting Matters, we understand the importance of personalised communication support. Our team of qualified Deafblind interpreters is dedicated to bridging the communication gap and empowering deafblind individuals to engage fully in all aspects of life. Need to Book an Interpreter? Get in Touch Today! https://lnkd.in/d6zsp5XB #InterpretingMatters #DeafblindInterpreter #BSL #LanguageServiceProfessionals

Meet Kayleigh: Our expert accountant keeping finances on track Kayleigh has been a cornerstone of the Interpreting Matters team for just over four years, ensuring our finances run smoothly and efficiently. With 17 years of experience and a qualified ACCA accountant, her expertise is invaluable to our operations. Based in Herne Bay, Kayleigh balances her career with a rich array of hobbies. Outside of work, she enjoys sewing, reading, painting, cooking, and exploring the world through travel. Kayleigh is currently expanding her horizons by learning to play the piano and studying the Greek language! Meet the team: https://lnkd.in/e6eHcdba #InterpretingMatters #MeetTheTeam #BSL #BritishSignLanguage

Smooth Travels Ahead with Passenger Assistance! With the holiday season fast approaching, many of us are making travel plans. At Interpreting Matters, we're excited to share Passenger Assistance - a free app developed in partnership with National Rail to make your rail journeys smoother and more accessible. Whether you're a wheelchair user, have a visual impairment, or are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, this app communicates your needs directly to station staff, ensuring you get the assistance you require. How it works: 🚆 Download the app on your Android or iOS device. Set up your profile with your specific accessibility requirements. Plan your rail journey, and let the app handle the rest! Let's make travel inclusive for everyone. Download Passenger Assistance today and travel with confidence this holiday season! Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/e7FVvNQS #InterpretingMatters #TravelAssistance #AccessibleTravel https://lnkd.in/e4Wnhg6U

Bridging the Climate Communication Gap with BSL 🌍🤟As global climate conferences like COP29 emphasise the urgency of environmental action, making these vital conversations accessible to the Deaf community is crucial. At Interpreting Matters, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on ground-breaking developments in British Sign Language (BSL) that make discussing climate change more inclusive! Led by a dedicated team of 12 experts at the University of Edinburgh, including Deaf scientists, educators, and sign linguists, this collaborative project has developed BSL signs for abstract climate concepts. Unlike signs for everyday objects, climate terms require thoughtful, visual representations that communicate complex scientific processes. New signs undergo rigorous feedback from team members and Deaf students, ensuring accuracy before they are added to the Scottish Sensory Centre BSL online glossary. By breaking down communication barriers, this project is empowering the Deaf community to fully engage in climate action discussions and make their voices heard for our planet's future. 🌱 Read more about this fantastic initiative: https://lnkd.in/egtJD8Vq #ClimateAction #BSL #InterpretingMatters #InclusiveCommunication