Interpreting Services
British Sign Language is used by 151,000 people in the UK, of whom 87,000 are deaf*. CDA employs experienced and qualified interpreters and has access to freelance and specialist interpreters.
*The British Sign Language (BSL) report 2022. Published 31 July 2023
Why Interpreters Are Essential
BSL is different from spoken or written English, with its own grammar and syntax. It involves a combination of hand shapes and movements, lip patterns, facial expressions, and shoulder movements.
On average, it takes 7–10 years or more to become a fully qualified British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter in the UK. This is because BSL is an in-depth visual language with its own grammar, and interpreters must learn to translate between BSL and English linguistically and culturally. Some people may be able to become qualified sooner, for example if they attend a full-time university course or are born into a deaf signing family.
Our interpreters provide safe and appropriate two-way communication, which supports the BSL Act 2022, the Equality Act 2010 and meets the Accessible Information Standard of the NHS. Find out more information on the BSL Act 2022.
Our Interpreting Services
BSL Interpretation
We provide interpreting services in a variety of settings including medical, legal, employment, education, weddings, baptisms and funerals
Translation Service
We can translate information from written English into British Sign Language. We can translate BSL film CVs that you may receive
BSL Video Service
We can create BSL videos for you to overlay onto your audio videos to facilitate complete communication
Need an interpreter?
If you need to book an interpreter or are interested in a career in interpreting then please get in touch