The UK emergency services provides a video link to enable BSL users to access the 999 emergency services. To access information on how to use this, download the app, or to make an emergency call if required, please follow this link: https://999bsl.co.uk/
Zara Gilmour, Helpline Manager, said:
“Our Helpline is for everyone in Scotland and we want to make sure that anyone experiencing domestic abuse or forced marriage knows that we are here to speak to them in the language they are most comfortable using. Reaching out for support can be daunting for anyone and we know that BSL users can often experience additional barriers in accessing support due to a lack of services delivered in their first language.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has not caused domestic abuse – abuse is an abuser’s choice, always. However, it has given abusers more tools to control and isolate their partners and children. And that prolonged isolation and increased control has made seeking help much more difficult for survivors. Now more than ever it is vital that we make sure our service is as accessible as possible so that anyone who wants support can access our expert advice when and where they need it.
“If you contact us using a BSL video interpreting service, your call will still be confidential. We will listen to you, believe you and offer you advice and information. We are here for you.”
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