Council uses 21st century technology to help deaf residents
Hammersmith & Fulham Council is one of the first London boroughs to introduce an innovative new video relay service for deaf residents who prefer to use British Sign Language (BSL).
Residents can now use interactive video screens in two council receptions to communicate with a BSL interpreter. The interpreter then relays their message live to council staff before signing the response back to the deaf resident.
Deaf resident Natalie Drytchak, who tried out the new system with the mayor of Hammersmith & Fulham, said: “I talked to the mayor using the new service and found it really helpful. It will make a big difference to me as I’m now able to contact the council the way I want to.”
