Bradford Council is leading the way amongst local authorities in dedicating a section of its website to people who use British Sign Language.
The 'Welcome to Bradford Council BSL Website' part of the www.bradford.gov.uk site, has been created in response to requests from the deaf community.
The section offers 27 videos across six topics including an introduction to the Council with general contact details, information on benefits, Council Tax, rubbish bins, waste, recycling, neighbourhood support and details about services for the deaf.
British Sign Language is a separate language to English. Deaf people whose first language is BSL may not be fluent English readers. The signing is done by a deaf person from Bradford called Susie Farrar. She is a qualified BSL trainer and assessor. The videos are subtitled as well as signed, for people who are hard of hearing.
If people prefer to get their information in written form. These scripts are available to read by selecting the link below each picture on www.bradford.gov.uk/bsl
'Welcome to Bradford Council BSL Website' is the newest addition to the ever-increasing range of services and information provided by Bradford Council on its website.
Coun Kris Hopkins, Leader of Bradford Council, said: "We are committed to making it as easy as possible for everyone in the district to communicate with the Council and to do other useful tasks such as request services or pay bills.
"More people are choosing to do this via the internet rather than by post. However, people can still ring up or have a face to face interview at bdirect or other council offices around the district including Keighley, Bingley and Shipley Town Halls."
Bdirect manager Sue Longbottom emphasised that they would need to know in advance if BSL support was needed so the necessary arrangements could be made. Some staff in the town halls have reached stage one in signing so they can at least meet and greet people in sign language.
Officer/Contact
Kevin Watson
Electronic Services Manager (Projects)
Telephone: 01274 437216
Media Relations Officer
Jane Lewis
Telephone: 01274 433526
Fax: 01274 432005
Email: press.communications@bradford.gov.uk
Date: 16.01.08
