There are around 20,000 people living in North Lanarkshire who are deaf or hard of hearing, many of whom either communicate using BSL or those in the majority who rely on the hearing ability they have helped by use of hearing aids and other amplifying equipment.

Deaf people in the UK use various methods of communication but BSL is the most widely used method of signed communication. BSL is a unique language which was formally recognised by the British Government in 2003. It has its own grammar which is different from English and involves using a person's hands, body and facial expression. It is widely recognized that people who use BSL can experience difficulties in getting access to services because of the language barrier and because there is a national shortage of BSL/English Interpreters.

Council First Stop Shops in Motherwell and Airdrie now offer a BSL / English interpreter service online using video conferencing world-wide web based technology. Customer Service Assistants (CSA) trained in basic BSL sign for service users to accompany them to a room where they will have privacy to use the service.

Using a computer equipped with a webcam, service users and CSAs are able to log onto Deaf Connections' website and linked directly to an interpreter. The screen is split to show the service user and an interpreter who communicated through BSL. The interpreter informs the CSA of the services the service user wishes to access or any enquiries they may have. Feedback from those using the service is extremely positive and the council is committed to promoting the service throughout North Lanarkshire.

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