Kingston Interpreting Service

British Sign Language interprets English to British Sign Language (BSL) and vice versa. BSL and English are unique in vocabulary and grammatical structure so a knowledge of the two different languages and cultures is essential to ensure the meaning and content are interpreted accurately.

All of our BSL interpreters are fully qualified and registered with the NRCPD.

Booking a British Sign Language interpreter

Existing customers can book online

First time booking please use the online form

It is advisable to make your booking in advance, however we can accommodate short notice requests where required. Any short notice requests must be made by submitting this form

How to work with a sign language interpreter

Please do:

• speak directly to your client at an even pace
• allow the interpreter to sit or stand alongside the person speaking and opposite the client
• consider the lighting, making sure that the client can see the interpreter clearly
• reduce background noise so that the interpreter can hear clearly
• send the interpreter preparation material before the assignment (agenda, minutes, notes, handouts etc)
• allow for the time delay in the interpreting process and give the client a chance to respond
• book two interpreters for an assignment lasting two hours or more

Please don't:

• feel uncomfortable if the client looks at the interpreter rather than you
• allow more than one person to speak at a time
• ask the interpreter to give advice or offer opinions during the interpreting task
• expect an interpreter to work for longer than 20 to 30 minutes without a break
• use jargon or abbreviations not in general use
• expect the client to read a handout and watch the interpreter at the same time