Deaf Services
Specialist Deaf communication services
Silent Sounds provides a comprehensive range of specialist communication services for Deaf, deafblind and hard-of-hearing people across the UK.
From Deaf Relay interpreting and deafblind communication support to lipspeaking, speech-to-text reporting (STTR) and professional notetaking, our experienced team helps organisations provide accessible, effective communication tailored to individual needs.
Specialist Deaf communication services across the UK, including Deaf Relay, deafblind support, lipspeaking, STTR and notetaking.
Deaf Relay Interpreters
When a Deaf client has specific or complex language needs they will need a Deaf Relay Interpreter. The client requiring a Deaf Relay Interpreter may have learning disabilities, mental health problems or use rare signs or what is described as “grassroots Deaf”. A Deaf Relay Interpreter will ensure that the client fully understands the dialogue being communicated. Many “grassroots Deaf” people have a complex BSL structure mixed in with issues of understanding even basic concepts.
Supported by our dedicated in-house Deaf Services team, we work with NHS Trusts, local authorities, education providers, employers and other organisations to identify and arrange the most appropriate communication support, including short-notice and urgent requirements.
Deafblind Hands On & Manual
A Deafblind client is sometimes referred to as having multisensory impairment. It is important to remember that not all clients that are Deaf and blind will communicate in the same way. Some will communicate via a service called Deafblind Manual, this is where the language professional will spell words onto the client’s hands using the Deafblind Alphabet. Other clients may prefer to hold onto a British Sign Language interpreter’s hands while they are signing and this method is called Hands-on Interpreting. The client will do this by visually following the signs that the interpreter is signing. Some clients may still have some vision or what is known a ‘tunnel vision’ and will have a specific area in their vision where they are able to see, for example, straight in front of them. This is called their visual frame and they will simply require the British Sign Language interpreter to sign within this frame so that they are able to see.
Electronic & Manual Notetakers
A notetaker will compile a summary of a meeting, lecture or event. Manual notetakers take handwritten notes which offer a useful account for a Deaf person to read from after the event. Electronic notetakers work via a computer and type a précis of all that is said during the event/session, which the client can read via a linked computer. This is not a word for word account, which Speech to Text Reporting provides.
Speech To Text Reporter - STTR
A Speech to Text reporter will input what is being said into a computer that uses a specially adapted shorthand keyboard. This is then converted into full, structured English sentences. These sentences then appear on a larger screen so that they can easily be read by the service user. A Speech to Text reporter can produce a word for word account of what is being said at a speed of 200 words per minute. They will also add in little extras such as ‘applause’ or ‘laughter’ to help the Deaf/ hard of hearing person get a feel for what the atmosphere is like.
Lip Speaking & Lip Reading
Lip Speaking & Lip Reading Lip Speakers are language professionals who will reproduce words, that have been said, using very clear lip patterns.
Lip Speakers are used when Deaf/hard of hearing clients are unable to see or get close enough to the speaker.
Lip Readers are trained professionals who are able to give a voice to a person who is only able to produce mouth movements. This may be someone who has lost their voice or someone who has a medical condition and is unable to produce spoken words.
Contact us
Telephone
01494 796030
Text / FaceTime
07380599832
Out of hours (Deaf Services only)
Address
9-10 Manor Courtyard
Hughenden Avenue
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire
HP13 5RE