British Sign Language (BSL) is often the primary, or first, language for people with a significant hearing loss. BSL has a different grammar structure to standard English as well as a reduced vocabulary and hence can impact on the reading and writing of standard English for some users.

When booking and using a BSL interpreter it is important to ensure that the person is appropriately qualified and operates at a good standard. Poor interpretation can impact on performance. BSL interpreters will need breaks during long meetings and often two are required to take over from each other.