Saturday, May 24, 2025
regency radio sussex news
Click here to listen to Regency Radio The Number One Advert Free Radio Station in Sussex

Signing Service launched for Def people to contact HM Coastguard in an Emergency

HM Coastguard

Did you know that – from today – if you are deaf and need HM Coastguard’s help, you can now call 999 Coastguard on the new website or app and sign for us.

How amazing is that?

“It’s every bit as important as the launch of the 999 service more than 80 years ago, we are so proud to be a part of the UK’s first ever Emergency Video Relay Service for deaf British Sign Language users.”

Cheryl Clifford, Staff officer (technical services), has worked hard to ensure that HM Coastguard call operators are ready for our first call using the new free service from Sign Language Interactions, which will connect callers to online British Sign Language interpreters, who will then relay the conversation to us – the emergency authorities.

We have been working hard on ways to ensure accessibility for all and we are delighted to be a part of this.

Every second counts in an emergency and so a faster and more direct service for BSL users will save lives.

In Cheryl’s words, “it’s amazing.”

We absolutely agree.

Find out more and, if you are a BSL user, download it: https://999bsl.co.uk/

More Sussex News

Sussex News Pages

sussex news logo
Click here to listen to Regency Radio

Sussex Coast News

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

We and our partners store and/or access information on a device, such as cookies and process personal data, such as unique identifiers and standard information sent by a device for personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, and audience insights, as well as to develop and improve products. With your permission we and our partners may use precise geolocation data and identification through device scanning. You may click to consent to our and our partners’ processing as described above. Alternatively you may access more detailed information and change your preferences before consenting or to refuse consenting. Please note that some processing of your personal data may not require your consent, but you have a right to object to such processing. Your preferences will apply to this website only. You can change your preferences at any time by returning to this site