Deaf Community

Users can access the 999 BSL service in three simple steps:

  • Download the 999BSL app or open the webpage 999bsl.co.uk
  • Press the red button 'Call 999 BSL now'
  • Connect to an interpreter

For more information about the 999 BSL service, visit: www.999bsl.co.uk

How to contact the Police if you are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing through video relay service

Access to a sign language interpreter can be gained in the links below.

How to contact the Police if you are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing via textphone

Guidance is provided in the video below. 

BSL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDgeNi3FAeM

ISL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MPvDhcBudQA

Emergency SMS

The Police Service of Northern Ireland local Emergency SMS system has been superseded by the national Emergency SMS system. The national system ‘emergency SMS’ permits registered users to contact the emergency services by using their mobile phones to send texts to 999 for emergency assistance. This service goes through specially trained 999 operators and provides those who have registered with equitable access to all emergency services.

Further information and registration can be found at www.emergencysms.org.uk

Text Relay has also changed to ‘Next Generation Text Service’ which allows registered users to use their mobile phone and devices connected to the internet to contact emergency services as well as their textphone. Further information can be obtained from www.ngts.org.uk

How to contact the Police if you are deaf, deafened or hard of hearing through SMS

Guidance is provided in the videos attached. 

BSL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWzU2DNIk5w&t=1s

ISL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGq8xcYxTTE