The 999 BSL UK emergency video relay service for deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users has been launched today, Friday, June 17. The service gives deaf BSL users the option of calling the emergency services using BSL, via the 999 BSL website and app.

Susan Daniels OBE, Chief Executive of the National Deaf Children’s Society, said:

“Calling for help quickly is vital in an emergency and no one should ever have to worry about communication when they do so. 999 BSL should remove these barriers, so we strongly welcome its launch.

“It’s now crucial that the developers do everything they can to make sure that every BSL user in the country knows it exists.

“We’d urge every deaf child and young person who uses BSL to download the app without delay. Having the option to get help so quickly, in their first language, could one day prove to be a life-saver.”