Enhancing Deaf Inclusivity - Signapse and Transport for All Partnership
Jul 2, 2024
Transport for All is a disabled-led group dedicated to breaking down barriers and transforming the transport system so disabled people can make the journeys they want, with freedom, dignity, ease, and confidence. Over the last 40 years, evolving from the Federation of London Dial-a-Rides (FoLDaR), Transport for All has consistently worked with its members to campaign for change and influence governments, industry, and the public.
The Problem
Transport for All has always been committed to providing information and resources in various formats, including British Sign Language (BSL). For instance, they used BSL interpreters to facilitate their landmark Accessible Transport Survey, ensuring Deaf respondents could participate without barriers. However, a chronic shortage of BSL interpreters across the UK made it challenging for the organisation to extend BSL access to other written materials quickly and cost-effectively.
The Selection
Aware of our early work in the transport sector, Transport for All knew about our artificial intelligence technology that made transport announcements accessible in sign language for the first time. When we launched our video translation product in September 2023, Transport for All decided to collaborate with us to translate their upcoming report, "Are we there yet? Barriers to transport for disabled people (2023)," into BSL in time for its launch. Our technology streamlined the video translation process, speeding up both translation and editing, which allowed us to deliver this major translation within the limited timeframe.
The Implementation
Despite the tight deadline, our collaboration with Transport for All ensured that the translation was ready for the report's release. in December 2023. “Are we there yet?” in BSL is available on YouTube. Over 75 BSL users have read the report using the video.
Real customer experiences
Conclusion
Since the initial project, we have continued to support Transport for All by making their Trustee Recruitment materials, Accessibility Statement, and their "For All Manifesto" for the upcoming General Election accessible as BSL videos. Additionally, Transport for All will benefit from our website grant program, which includes the implementation of our website tool for free, further enhancing their website's accessibility for BSL users.
“Transport for All believes that every disabled person should be able to access information in a format that works for us. There’s been a fantastic rise in the number of organisations making information accessible to BSL users, but there are now long waits for translators to work on materials. Signapse’s system allowed us to plan with confidence. We knew the translation would be ready, and we could be certain our communications would be accessible to all” - Caroline Stickland, CEO of Transport for All
Get involved with us
We are seeking forward-thinking clients that aim to build the next generation of access for sign language users.
We value working with those who want to be part of the future of equality and are keen to improve operational efficiency. If you would like to transform accessibility for sign language users at your business, please contact us.
