999 BSL: UK emergency video relay service now available in British Sign Language

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What is 999 BSL?

999 BSL is a completely free of charge service which allows you to contact the Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade and Coastguard emergency services using BSL, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This service has been set up so that no deaf or hard of hearing person will be excluded when they need to make an emergency call, therefore saving lives.

The 999 BSL service is for emergency situations ONLY, for an example if someone is seriously injured; lives at risk; being in danger or harm; a serious offence is in progress or just has been committed. ​

For less urgent situations, please use Police 101 and NHS111 through SignVideo - not 999 BSL, unless there is an emergency. A full list of the SignVideo directory can be found here.

Setting up EVR

There are two ways to reach the emergency authorities through 999 BSL service. Download dedicated 999 BSL app from Apple/Google store, or visit website at www.999bsl.co.uk​

How to make a 999 BSL call?

There are four very simple steps. You will need to:​

1. Open the app (needs downloading beforehand) or visit website​. You will need to give permission to use your camera and/or microphone

2. Press the red button 'Call 999 BSL now’

3. Connect to an interpreter who will appear on the screen

4. The BSL interpreter will then call the 999 operator through landline and will relay the conversation.

Note: Any calls made via the service do not use your mobile or broadband data and are completely anonymous.

To find out more about the 999 BSL service please visit www.999bsl.co.uk