From 17 June 2022, people needing urgent emergency support across the UK (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) will be able to call 999 using British Sign Language (BSL) via a video relay service.
This means that BSL signers will have equal access to the fire, police, ambulance and coastguard emergency services.
From this date, people will be able to download the “999 BSL” app on iOS or Android devices, or use the 999 BSL website to contact 999 in BSL. No registration is needed. The service is designed to be very easy to use with just one button to call 999 via an interpreter. It also has a function to allow call backs if needed. All calls will be free and available 24/7.