The new service started on 1st July, 2011 and is funded by Doncaster Council and the Doncaster NHS. It will deliver British Sign Language interpreting services to support those who need to access mainstream services within the Council and NHS. To ensure a person-centred approach, BID Services will be offering service users choice in terms of how they access and book the service and methods offered will include a dedicated website, an electronic booking form, SMS and access via video calling.

Karen Rutherford, BID Services Communications Team Manager said:  “As a Deaf organisation, we have a comprehensive understanding of the unique cultural and linguistic needs of the communities we work with, and we look forward to providing excellent communications support for the residents of Doncaster which delivers real choice over the services they receive”.

Interpreting support will be delivered by qualified, professional interpreting staff, covering all communications requirements including British Sign Language, Sign Supported English, Lipspeaking, Deaf Blind communication, Speech to Text, Notetaking and Deaf Relay.

Doncaster Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Services, Councillor Patricia Schofield, said: “I’m delighted at the choice of communications support available in Doncaster. We are continually committed to looking at how we can improve our services to ensure people with additional needs really feel part of the community and lead normal lives. I’m looking forward to seeing the benefits of this new provider.”

Information relating to the Doncaster Interpreting Service can be obtained by contacting us in the following ways:

Telephone and Textphone: 0121 246 6134
Fax: 0121 246 6161
Mobile (SMS): 07984 683182
Email: interpreting@bid.org.uk
Skype: interpreting.bid
Web: www.doncaster-interpreting.org.uk
Visit the Doncaster Council Sensory Team webpage Doncaster Council Sensory Team

 

Published 24th June 2011