British Sign Language (BSL) is a language all of its own and involves communication by hand gestures, facial expressions as well as body movements. It is classed as a visual-spatial language and is a very full bodied and detailed language.
It may be faster to speak individual words than to create a sign, but this does not mean that communicating in BSL is slower than a spoken language. Because our eyes can perceive multiple signals and signs are combined with movements of the head, face and body, the BSL conversation is as fluent as a verbal one.
Recognition for British Sign Language (BSL)
British Sign Language was recognised as a language in its own right by the UK government on 18th March 2003. In fact, it is an official minority language in the UK and now has a similar status to that of other minority national languages such as Welsh and Gaelic.
It is estimated by the Department of Work and Pensions that British Sign Language is the first language of nearly 70,000 people in the UK. With the services of a Prestige Network British Sign Language / English interpreter, we can help you to bridge the communication gap between Deaf* and hearing people.
British Sign Language Grammar
British Sign Language is the same as any other language – it has its own vocabulary, grammar, expressions, emotions etc. as well as its own regional variations. Our interpreters can communicate exact emotions, expressions and nuances, as well as directly interpret the literal exchanges.
Prestige Network’s BSL / English Interpreting Services
All our BSL / English Interpreters are professionally qualified and all their work is carried out to a very high level ensuring that communication is clear and effective.
We only work with qualified and/or registered BSL / English Interpreters. All our BSL / English Interpreters adhere to a strict code of conduct and are very sensitive to their role, especially for example in legal issues. We understand that a BSL / English Interpreter’s role is simply to provide an impartial interpretation of all communication and not to offer advice or opinions.
As well as British Sign Language, we offer professional translation services and interpreting services in over 400 languages.