Contact Scotland BSL is a Scottish Government service that provides telephone access for Deaf users throughout Scotland through live BSL video interpreting video relay service.
For hearing callers
Jack explains how you can make the most of Contact Scotland BSL telephone relay service in making and receiving calls from Deaf callers. Our service is highly professional, confidential and impartial and our BSL interpreters are available 24/7 so who do you want to call?
Jack explains how you can make the most of Contact Scotland BSL telephone relay service in making and receiving calls from Deaf callers. Our service is highly professional, confidential and impartial and our BSL interpreters are available 24/7 so who do you want to call?
Inclusive customer service for all
Contact Scotland BSL enables services to become accessible to the Deaf Community which in turn can strengthen relationships. We deliver the highest-quality BSL video interpreting every day throughout the year, creating outstanding shared value for your service and the Deaf community.
Making a call to a Deaf person
You can call 0131 510 4555 and ask for the person by their name and the online interpreter will check their registered details. Your call can be connected instantly, or you can leave an interpreted voice message on your behalf.
Receiving a call from a Deaf person
It’s simple, you would answer the call your usual way. A BSL interpreter will introduce the service and the Deaf person first before they begin to relay the conversation. The interpreter will then relay the call between yourself and the Deaf person.
Tips to remember with Contact Scotland BSL calls
- As the call is being interpreted, the call may take slightly longer than other calls. This is just down to the interpreting process
- It is always useful to plan your call in advance
- Have pen and paper handy to take notes if necessary
- Our interpreters are highly qualified to sign simultaneously as you speak, however any pause is common as there may be a slight time-lag while interpreting to/from your caller.
- Our interpreters will remain strictly professional, confidential and impartial, and will not offer views or comments during telephone conversations.
What do I need to use Contact Scotland BSL?
1) Telephone – this can be a landline or mobile.
2) Full name of the person you’re calling – you will be asked for your caller’s full name before your call can be connected.
3) Your contact details –please be ready to leave your contact details to receive a call-back if you wish.
VRS for all
Our service is VRS for all and it is completely free to use. We are open 24/7 so you can call anytime. Please visit our FAQs page for more information.
