NEPO528 British Sign Language offers access to a range of providers delivering services such as face to face interpreting, video link interpreting, and other forms of sign language such as deaf relay interpreting.

The solution comprises four lots, as detailed below:

Lot 1 – Face to Face and Video Link

• British Sign Language (face to face and video link)
• Speech to Text Operator
• Lip speaking (face to face and video link)

Lot 2 – Face to Face

• British Sign Language
• Speech to Text Operator
• Lip speaking

Lot 3 – Video Link

• British Sign Language
• Lip speaking

Lot 4 – Specialist Services

• Deafblind Communication
• International Sign Language
• Deaf Relay Interpreting

Following the initial tender process, 13 providers were appointed to the solution. The solution takes the form of a Pseudo Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), therefore new providers who meet the specified criteria will be added to the solution throughout its five-year term.

NEPO528 British Sign Language delivers the following benefits:

• A compliant solution procured using market intelligence and industry recommendations.
• Fees for the delivery of the service are divided into interpreter fees and provider fees for greater transparency, providing cost visibility for how fees are allocated between all parties and promoting sustainable rates of pay for Interpreters.
• Interpreters are required to hold professional qualifications with relevant industry bodies, namely Scottish Register of Language Professionals with the Deaf Community (SRLPDC), National Register of Communication Professionals working with Deaf and Deafblind people (NRCPD), and Regulatory Body for Sign Language Interpreters and Translators (RBSLI).
• Public sector buyers can appoint providers by direct award based on their individual requirements to access flexibility and choice.

Interested in becoming a supplier to NEPO528 British Sign Language? As this is a Dynamic Purchasing System, providers may be added on an annual basis throughout the duration of this solution. Visit the NEPO Portal to find out more and register interest.